Macramé knots are the building blocks and cornerstones of making a gorgeous creation with ropes and yarns. It’s the heart and soul of this beautiful craft by twisting and turning cords into simple or intricate patterns. If you’re new to this craft or hobby, we will enlighten you with some of the easiest and most introductory knots to get you started. After all, mastering a few basic knots is the first step to unlocking your creative possibilities!
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Every, if not all, macramé creation calls for these foundational knots to create a base for you to work on. It’s quite literally the bread and butter of macramé—they’re simple, versatile, and oh-so-essential! So whether you’re planning on making Wall Hangings to decorate your living space with your handmade work of art or crafting Cute Bracelets to accessorize, you’ll notice that the patterns you’ve chosen always utilize these basic macramé knots to begin with.
Without further ado, let’s kickstart your creative journey with these quintessential knots. But before we go on board, here is some guidance on the essentials you will need. Also, we are sure you have some questions, and we’ll provide answers to the most frequently asked ones below. With that being said, happy macramé-ing!
What is Macramé?
Macramé is an age-old craft that traces its roots back to ancient weavers. It involves the art of tying ropes or cords into various knots to create gorgeous and textured decorative pieces that can be functional. Since then, it has been a beloved hobby for crafters today because of all the fun, quirky, and unique designs that can be made by using simple knotting techniques.
If this is your first rodeo at trying out macramé, you’ll soon learn how captivating this hobby is! Once you’ve mastered these knots, you can definitely try out these Macramé For Beginners Patterns to explore where your creativity lies! We promise you that this craft hobby is so soothing for the mind, body, and soul. So, if you’re wondering how to macramé or how to make a specific knot, let us guide you through the fun process.
Gather Your Macramé Supplies
Like any other craft, preparing a list of supplies is important to get you going. For macramé, you’ll only need a few inexpensive essential items that can be acquired at your local craft stores or online. If you cannot find it in person, you can always check out this Full Macramé Kit that is ideal for Plant Hangers. So, here’s what you’ll need:
- Macramé cords or rope (Cotton, jute, hemp, or synthetic fibers)
- Macramé hoops, dowels, or rings
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Comb or brush (for detangling cords)
FAQs On Basic Macramé Knots
1. What is the difference between a working cord and a filler cord?
In macramé, you’ll work with two types of cords: the working cord and the filler cord Don’t worry; it’s very easy to determine their differences and to identify how they operate. The instructions for macramé knots below will give you a better idea of how they work.
– Working cord: Cords that you actively manipulate to create the knots.
– Anchor cords or Filler cords: Remain stationary and serve as the core around which the knots are wrapped around.
2. How do I measure the length of my cord?
Oh, the horror of not having enough cord to work with when you are finishing! We wouldn’t want you to face that problem when macramé-ing, especially when starting out. If you need some guidance on How To Estimate Your Cord Length, you can click this link here.
As a rule of thumb, you’ll want to prepare at least four to eight times the length of your project. It’s always best to estimate and prepare extra as you might need it, but you’ll also need to identify a few factors firsthand:
– Your macramé pattern’s cord length requirements
– How many knots does the pattern consist
– The thickness of your cord
– Additional length for fringes
3. Can I mix and match different cords in a single project?
The short answer is absolutely! Don’t hold back on trying out different types of cords to incorporate into your macramé knots. It adds texture and visual interest, as well. However, you’ll need to ensure that the cords you’re using have similar thickness only if you’re reaching for a balanced look.
In another case, feel free to experiment with cords of varying thickness and fibers. Just keep in mind that you should consider the weight-bearing requirements of your pattern when selecting the ideal cord’s thickness. Mixing and matching different cords is also a great way to personalize your projects and give them your own flair.
4. How do I prevent my cords from fraying?
Sometimes, it’s inevitable that your cords might fray throughout the process of tying and twisting. It happens to everyone in this craft, but there are a few effective ways to prevent it. Here are your options:
1. Taping the ends of your cord: Use masking or painter’s tape to wrap the ends of your cords tightly. This helps to create a barrier that prevents the fibers from unraveling.
2. Apply fabric glue: Use Fray Check or any fabric glue by applying small amounts to the end of the cords and letting it dry.
3. Use heat: This is only applicable to synthetic cords. Use a lighter to melt the tips of the cords, just enough to create tiny solid beads.
1. Lark’s Head Knot and Reverse Lark’s Head Knot (Cow Hitch)
First and foremost, if you’re wondering how to macramé and where to begin, most designs and patterns would start with the Lark’s Head Knot. This is a mounting knot, meaning it forms the base of your projects as you attach your cords to your dowels, hoops, or rings. Here’s what you’re going to do:
Step 1: Grab your dowel and cord and cut it to your desired length.
Step 2: Fold the working cord in half by bringing the ends together to create a loop.
Step 3: Wrap the loop over the top of your dowel with the loop pointing downwards behind the dowel.
Step 4: Pull the two loose ends of the working cord through the loop.
Step 5: Tighten the knot by pulling on the loose ends of the working cords. Make sure the ends are of equal length.
Reverse Lark’s Head Knot (Cow Hitch):
Steps 1 and 2: Repeat Lark’s Head Knot steps 1 and 2.
Step 3: Wrap the loop from behind the dowel, then forward and downwards in front of the dowel.
Step 4: Pull the two loose ends of the working cord through the loop.
Step 5: Tighten the knot by pulling on the loose ends of the working cord. Make sure the ends are of equal length.
2. Vertical Lark’s Head Knot
The Vertical Lark’s Head Knot structure is very similar to the regular Lark’s Head. The only difference between these 2 macramé knots is that it is done sideways. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Begin with a Lark’s Head Knot.
Step 2: You will work with the two loose ends. Your right cord will be the working cord, and the left will be your filler cord.
Step 3: Grab your right working cord and bring it over the left cord and through the loop underneath.
Step 4: Pull on the working cord to tighten.
Step 5: With the same cord, bring it underneath the left cord and through the loop, and tighten.
3. Alternating Vertical Lark’s Head Knot
Though it may look a little jarring and daunting, this knot is very similar to the construction of the Vertical Lark’s Head Knot. It is easy and made to create an alternating texture for your projects, and you can also add new cords to your existing ones. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Begin with two Lark’s Head Knots on your dowel.
Step 2: Push the knots next to each other, and you will work with the four loose ends.
Step 3: Grab a new working cord and place it behind the three rightmost loose cords.
Step 4: Grab the new right cord and place it over the three loose cords, around the back, and through the loop.
Step 5: With that same cord, place it around the back of the three loose cords, over the front, and through the loop.
Step 6: Pull to tighten and push your knot to the top.
Step 7: Repeat the process on the three leftmost loose cords and work with the new left cord.
4. Double Half Hitch Knot (Clove Hitch)
A Double Half-Hitch Knot, or the Clove Hitch, falls under the basic knots you can try. It is made by tying two half-hitch knots and working around a filler cord. This helps to create a straight line for your project and can be made vertically, horizontally, and diagonally. For this tutorial, we will be showing you how to make it horizontally. Here’s what you’re going to do:
Step 1: Create four Lark’s Head Knots and push them next to each other. You will have eight loose cords, which will be your working cords.
Step 2: Grab your leftmost cord, which will be your filler cord, and hold it horizontally in front of the eight working cords.
Step 3: Pull your second leftmost working cord from behind the filler cord and place it up and around the filler cord, forming a loop.
Step 4: Pull the ends of the working cord through the loop and tighten it to secure it in place.
Step 5: Repeat the process with the same working cord to form a Double Half-Hitch Knot.
Step 6: Now, you will repeat the entire process with the remaining working cords to form a chain.
5. Diagonal Double Half Hitch Knot
As mentioned above, the Double Half Hitch Knot can be made diagonally. It’s straightforward to make, and its method is identical to the Horizontal Double Half Hitch Knot. Here are the steps you can take to achieve it.
Step 1: Begin by creating 6 Lark’s Head Knots and push them next to each other. You will have 12 loose cords, which will be your working cords.
Step 2: Grab the leftmost cord, which will be your filler cord, and hold it diagonally in front of the 12 working cords.
Step 3: Pull your second leftmost working cord from behind the filler cord and place it up and around the filler cord, forming a loop.
Step 4: Pull the ends of the working cord through the loop and tighten it to secure it in place.
Step 5: Repeat the process with the same working cord to form a Double Half-Hitch Knot.
Step 7: Repeat the knotting technique until you’ve completed three of the Lark’s Head Knots.
Step 8: Now, you will repeat the entire process, starting from the rightmost working cord.
Step 9: Once you’ve completed the remaining cords, secure them together by making another Double Half Hitch Knot in the center.
6. Vertical Double Half Hitch Knot
Here’s the vertical method for making a Vertical Double Half-Hitch Knot. It’s the easiest method and works fast, too.
Step 1: Prepare a series of Larks Head Knots on your dowel and an extra cord, which will be your working cord.
Step 2: You can start knotting from the left or the right. Grab your working cord and create Double Half Hitch Knots around your first filler cord.
Step 3: Grab the ends of your working cord and repeat the process horizontally to complete the remaining filler cords.
Step 4: Once you’ve reached the last filler cord, make another set of Double Half Hitch Knots.
Step 5: Repeat the process for the remaining filler cords.
7. Square Knot (Left-Facing)
Square knots are another easy, simple, and versatile macramé knot you can master. They are used in almost every pattern and are made with four cords. Each square knot consists of two half-squares, which can be left-facing or right-facing. Let’s learn how to make a left-facing square knot.
Step 1: Begin with two Lark’s Head Knots. Push them to each other on the dowel.
Step 2: You will be working with two outer cords as the working cords and two middle cords as the filler cords.
Step 3: Grab the leftmost cord and cross it over the two middle cords and under the rightmost cord.
Step 4: Next, grab the rightmost cord and pass it under the middle cord and up over the leftmost cord.
Step 5: Pull both the working cords and tighten them to secure. You have now completed a Half-Square Knot.
Step 6: Repeat the process in the opposite direction. Grab the rightmost cord and pass it over the middle cords, under the leftmost cord.
Step 7: Grab the leftmost cord and pass it under the two middle cords and up over the rightmost cord.
Step 8: Pull both the working cords and tighten them.
8. Right-Facing Square Knot
As mentioned above, you can also make your Square Knots right-facing. It depends on your preference. The knotting process is similar to the left-facing Square Knot; it only begins in the right direction.
Step 1: Begin with two Lark’s Head Knots. Push them to each other on the dowel.
Step 2: Grab the rightmost cord and cross it over the two middle cords and under the leftmost cord.
Step 3: Grab the leftmost cord, pass it under the middle cord, and up over the rightmost cord.
Step 4: Pull both the working cords and tighten them to secure. You have now completed a Half-Square Knot.
Step 5: Repeat the knotting again in the opposite direction, starting with the leftmost cord to complete your Square Knot.
9. Alternating Square Knots
An Alternating Square Knot is a variation of the Square Knot. It’s easy to work with, but a beginner might need some time and patience to get it right. However, with this video tutorial and our step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to master it quickly.
Step 1: Let’s assume you are going to make a row of 4 pairs of square knots for your project. Begin with 8 Lark’s Head Knots on the dowel, and push them near each other on the dowel.
Step 2: Start making Square Knots with the first pair (4 cords) of your Lark’s Head Knots.
Step 3: Continue making Square Knots with the other pairs until you’ve completed your first row with 4 Square Knots.
Step 4: Here comes the alternating part. Skip a pair of the leftmost cords and set them aside. Make a Square Knot with the next 4 cords.
Step 5: Continue working on your in-between Square Knots with the other pairs. You should have 3 Square Knots in total. In addition to the 2 leftmost cords, you have the 2 rightmost cords unworked.
Step 6: Once you’ve completed your second row, repeat steps 2 to 5 until you’ve achieved the desired length.
10. Snake Knot
A Snake Knot is an excellent knot for beginners to learn, as well! It’s visually pleasing and great for adding a textural element to your projects. It’s not that complicated to make. In fact, it’s pretty similar to the construction of the Josephine Knot. Here are the instructions:
Step 1: Start with a Lark’s Head Knot.
Step 2: Grab your right cord and make a big clockwise loop around the left cord by bringing it behind the left cord and over the top of the left cord.
Step 3: Next, grab your left cord and create an anticlockwise loop by bringing it behind the right cord and through the clockwise loop.
Step 4: Secure the knot by pulling on the two ends to tighten. Repeat to make more Snake knot.
11. Half Square Spiral Knot
Like the Square Knot, the Spiral knot is effortless and pretty much made with half-square knots. It can be made either left-facing or right-facing, depending on your preference. However, though the knotting process is identical to the Square Knots, you’ll be knotting in the same direction to create a spiral effect. You’ll need to prepare 4 cords, where the two outer left and right cords will be the working cords, and the middle two cords will be the filler cords. Let us show you how it’s done:
Step 1: Prepare four cords and start with Lark’s Head Knots, as shown in the video.
Step 2: Begin your knotting with a left or right-facing Half Square Knot.
Step 3: Next, keep making your Half Square Knots in the same direction as you started.
Step 4: Continue knotting until you’ve reached your desired length.
12. Half Hitch Spiral Knot
A Half Hitch Spiral Knot is a variation of the Spiral Knot. It’s one of the popular macramé knots used in tons of projects, and it only uses 2 cords. You will need to alternate between the cords, and here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Prepare a cord and begin with a Lark’s Head Knot. Push them to each other on the dowel. Ensure that the left cord is 5x longer than the right side.
Step 2: Start knotting with the long end. Grab your left cord and make a loop in a clockwise direction. Ensure that the loose end is placed on top of the left cord, facing the right side.
Step 3: Grab your right cord and pull it through the loop. Pull to tighten, and you’ll have completed your first half-hitch knots.
Step 4: Now that your longer cord is on the right, repeat steps 2 and 3 on the right side until your longer cord is situated back to the left side.
Step 5: Now, you’re going to alternate. Grab the longer (left) cord and make a clockwise loop, ensuring that the loose end is placed behind the left cord, facing the left side.
Step 6: Grab your short (right) cord and place it behind and through the loop.
Step 7: Repeat the process of alternating between the long and short cords.
13. Alternating Half Hitch Spiral Knot
The alternating half-hitch spiral knot is made by alternating and switching the working cords from one side to the other. It’s simple and easy to work with, and this knotting technique is commonly used for wall hangings and plant hangers. Here’s the step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Begin with a Lark’s Head Knot. Push them to each other on the dowel.
Step 2: Create a half-hitch knot with the left working cord.
Step 3: Alternate to the right working cord and make a half-hitch knot.
Step 4: Keep alternating and making half-hitch knots to create a spiral effect, and continue knotting until you’ve reached your desired length.
14. Barrel Knot (Coil Knot)
A Berrel Knot is a knot that adds texture to your projects. It’s also an excellent method for a finishing knot at the end of your loose cords. This helps to secure them in place and prevent your cords from unraveling. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Since this is a finishing knot, grab a loose cord you want to secure.
Step 2: Grab the end of your cord and twist it over to create a loop.
Step 3: Next, grab the loose end of your cord and wrap it around the leftmost side of the loop.
Step 4: Wrap it as many times as needed, and pull the top of the cord and the loose end to tighten and secure it.
15. Gathering Knot (Wrapping Knot)
Here’s another way you can finish your creations securely. The Gathering Knot, otherwise known as the Wrapping Knot, is used to secure a group of cords together into place. Though this is used as a finishing knot, you can totally use it as a beginning knot, too!
Step 1: Prepare a new cord, which will be the working cord for this knot.
Step 2: On your working cord, make a small loop on one end by folding it over.
Step 3: Lay the loop against the group of filler cords that you are gathering, with the loop pointing downward and ends pointing up.
Step 4: Grab the long end of your working cord and wrap it around the cords and over the loop, going from top to bottom. Wrap it around as many times as necessary, leaving a bit of room of the folded loop.
Step 5: Next, thread the remaining working cord through the loop.
Step 6: Grab and pull the top loose end of your working cord upwards to secure the knot. Make sure to pull the knot upwards until the knot is hidden in the wrapped cord.
Step 7: Trim off excess cord ends.
16. Josephine Knot
Finally, the Josephine Knot is one of the most creative macramé knots a beginner can learn! Though it seems delicate and complicated to make, it’s actually very simple. Doesn’t it look like a pretzel? Here’s how you can create one:
Step 1: You will work this knot with multiple 2 cords. In this video, it demonstrates a double-corded Josephine Knot that begins with 2 Lark’s Head knots on a dowel.
Step 2: Grab the two rightmost cords and create a clockwise loop. The loose ends should be facing the top right.
Step 3: Grab the two leftmost cords and create an anti-clockwise loop on top of the pre-existing loop, and shape them to look like a pretzel. The loose ends should be facing the top left.
Step 4: Next, drag the loose ends on the top right and place them under the body of the clockwise loop and over the anti-clockwise loop. Your loose ends should be facing down right.
Step 5: Drag the loose ends of the top left and place them over the body of the anticlockwise loop and under the clockwise loop. Your loose ends should be facing down left.
Step 6: Now that the base is formed, secure both the loose ends of the cords by pulling them downwards to tighten and fasten.
What’s Next?
- Kickstart your knotting skills and show us your progress on Facebook and Instagram by tagging us @madefromyarn so we can admire your work!
- Pin this post to Pinterest for future reference.
- Share your crafting journey with our community to learn more tips and tricks.
- Now that you’ve learned all the nitty gritty to the introductory macramé knots, pick some Macramé Patterns to begin!