Macramé is a great way to start a fun and relaxing new hobby. We have curated 25 easy macramé for beginners’ projects that are perfect for those who are new to this craft. Each project is simple and enjoyable, making it easy for you to start creating beautiful pieces right away. Additionally, we have included instructions for the 3 basic knots to help you get started on your macramé journey with confidence. So, gather your materials, and let’s start making knots together!
If you’re like us and love adding a personal touch to your home decor, then macramé is the ideal hobby to explore! With a few basic supplies and free macramé patterns, you can craft anything you’d like, from eye-catching wall hangings and cute little plant hangers to miniature household items like coasters and keychains for decor. Also, the process of knotting is incredibly soothing and satisfying.
Macramé is constructed with creative knotting techniques that can result in beautiful, jaw-dropping creations. If you haven’t noticed, most projects listed below utilize some of the most popular and basic knots. However, we understand that as beginners, you’ll require a helping hand, which is why we’ve provided a step-by-step guide below to show you the three common macramé knots.
So, gather your supplies, find a cozy spot to set up your workstation, and let the macramé magic whisk you away! Before you know it, you’ll be hopping on to more intricate designs as you get the hang of things, and each project will be a testament to your growing skills and artistic discovery. Let’s get right into it!
What is macramé?
As mentioned above, macramé is the process of tying ropes or cords together to create different knots that result in beautiful decorative pieces. Originating from ancient expertise used by weavers to complete textiles, it grew in popularity in the 70’s for its knotting techniques. Nowadays, it has become a favorite among crafters worldwide as it’s a fun hobby to be a part of, and it allows so much room for creative expression due to its simplicity and versatility.
Whether you’re a novice or an expert at this craft, many would find this captivating hobby relaxing and creative. As you loop and tie each knot, you’ll find yourself unwinding and getting lost in the rhythmic process. On top of that, the supplies and materials are inexpensive and can be found anywhere, meaning you can start your journey without breaking the bank. So, what are you waiting for? Check out all the materials you’ll need below to get going!
Supplies for Macramé Projects
Finding the supplies is always the number one step if you’re wondering where to begin. You’ll only need a few essential items that can be purchased online or in stores. However, the items mentioned will only act as a general guide because each pattern’s requirements will differ and vary according to the design. If needed, you can purchase the full Macramé Kit here, but keep in mind it’s a kit best for plant hangers. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
- Macramé cords or rope
- Macramé hoops or dowels or rings
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Comb or brush for detangling cords
- Decorative wooden beads
How To Macramé: 3 Basic Knots
To get started on the macramé for beginners projects, it’s important to note that you’ll need to learn the three basic macramé knots: the lark’s head knot, the half-hitch knot, and the square knot. With these knots, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful pieces. Remember, this will be a general guideline to the easiest knots to grasp. It has many more knots to master with different variations and types. You can check out this article on Popular Macramé Knots if you’d like to learn more.
- Lark’s Head Knot
This knot is a fundamental mounting point to start a macramé project. It is very easy to make and provides a stable and secure attachment for cords to be mounted onto a dowel, hoop, ring, or anchor cord to begin a project.
Step 1: Prepare a working cord, cut it to your desired length, fold the cord in half to form a loop, and wrap it over the top of the dowel with the loop pointing down behind the dowel.
Step 2: Next, pull both ends of the working cord down through the loop. Ensure that the ends are of equal length.
Step 3: Pull the working cord ends to tighten the loop against the dowel and complete the Lark’s Head Knot.
- Half-Hitch Knot
This knot is by far the simplest and most fundamental knot typically used as a component in more complex knots. It is done by wrapping a single working cord and tying around a filler cord. Here are the steps for making a Left-Facing Half Hitch Knot.
Step 1: Prepare two cords, with the working cord on the left and the filler cord on the right. Take the working cord and bring it over the top of the filler cord.
Step 2: Wrap the working cord around the filler cord and pass it through the loop on the left.
Step 3: Pull the end of the working cord down to tighten and form the Half-Hitch Knot, which is in the left-facing direction.
There are other knot patterns built out of Half Hitch Knots, such as the Right-Facing Half Hitch Knot, the Half Hitch Spiral, the Double Half Hitch, the Diagonal Double Half Hitch, the Vertical Half Hitch, the Vertical Lark’s Head, and more.
- Square Knots
The square knot is a commonly used knot that serves as the base for many macramé patterns and designs. The basic knot is made using four cords. To create the knot, you cross the two outermost cords alternately to tie a pair of filler cords in the middle. Here are the steps for creating a Left-Facing Square Knot.
Step 1: Prepare 4 cords, with the working cords on the outer left and right and the 2 inner cords as the filler cords.
Step 2: Hold the left working cord and cross it over the two filler cords and under the right working cord.
Step 3: Like braiding, hold the right working cord and pass it under the two filler cords and up over the left working cord.
Step 4: Pull both working cords and tighten them. You’ll now have a Half-Square Knot. Then, repeat the steps but in the opposite direction.
Step 5: Hold the right working cord and cross it over the two filler cords and under the left working cord.
Step 6: Next, hold the left working cord and pass it under the two anchor cords like before and up over the right working cord.
Step 7: Pull it tight, and you’ll have completed your first Square Knot, which is in the left-facing direction!
Once you have mastered this knot, you can make other knots based on this technique, such as Half Square Knots, Spiral Knots, Alternating Square Knots, and more.
FAQs On Beginner Macramé Patterns
1. How long does it take to complete a macramé project?
The time it takes to complete a project varies depending on the type of project, complexity, and size of the piece. Simple projects such as keychains, coasters, bookmarks, and bracelets could take an hour to three, and larger projects like wall hangings might take several days or weeks to complete. However, it depends on your skill level and the estimated time mentioned in each project. It will take some time for beginners to get used to the macramé knots, whereas experienced crafters can complete them faster. Just remember to enjoy the process and have fun.
2. Can I use different types of cords for my project?
Feel free to experiment with various types of cords available in the market. For instance, cords made from cotton, jute, hemp, or synthetic fibers can produce pieces with different textures and appearances. These are the most common cord options that most macramé artisans use for their projects because they develop the best results. These cords are easy to tie, eco-friendly, and most of them are biodegradable.
However, keep in mind that cords made of natural fibers are not water-resistant and may become moldy when exposed to moisture. If these options are hard to attain, you can also experiment with other materials in lieu of cords! These materials can be rope, string, yarn, or embroidery threads. If you’d like to learn more about cords, you can read this article, The Complete Guide To Macramé Cords, which touches on all the juicy details you’ll need.
3. How do I wash and clean my handmade macramé pieces?
We understand that since they are your handmade creations, proper care should be taken to preserve them and ensure their durability and longevity. However, since each macramé project varies in size and purpose, you would need to refer back to the pattern’s care requirements for accuracy. Nevertheless, here are some of the methods you can follow to ensure that your projects are safely taken care of.
1. Hand-wash your pieces in cold water using a mild soap.
2. When drying, lay it flat on a dry towel and roll it up to absorb the water. Avoid wringing or squeezing as it may damage the cords and tangle them.
3. Once the towel has soaked up all the moisture, lay your pieces flat on a shaded surface, directed away from sunlight. Sunlight might cause your cord’s color to fade and wooden dowels to brittle.
4. Finally, to keep your macramé looking fresh, gently dust it with a soft brush or cloth as needed once it has thoroughly dried. This will help to detangle the cords and retain their original shape.
4. How do I prevent my cords from fraying?
There’s nothing more frustrating than spending countless hours crafting your handmade pieces, only to step back and see the ends of your masterpieces fraying. In order to prevent this from happening, you can take a few preventative measures to make your macramé journey more satisfying.
1. Tape the ends: Use masking, clear, or painter’s tape to wrap the ends of the cord tightly, creating a barrier that keeps the fibers from unraveling.
2. Apply fabric glue: You can use Fray Check or fabric glue to prevent fraying. Apply small amounts to the end of the cords and let it dry.
3. Use heat: This is only applicable to synthetic cords. Use a lighter to melt the very tip of the cords, just enough to create a small, solid bead.
What’s Next?
- Start your macramé creations and share your completed artwork with us on Facebook and Instagram! Don’t forget to tag us @madefromyarn so that we can see them.
- Remember to pin this post on your Pinterest board for future reference.
- Don’t forget to share your macramé journey with our community to learn more tips and tricks from other crafters.
- If you love to loop and tie knots, then you must check out our various Macramé Patterns on our website. There are cute Plant Hangers, Wall Hanging Patterns, and gorgeous Friendship Bracelet Patterns.
25 Free Macramé Patterns to Help You Get Started
Now that we’ve covered all the juicy details and nitty-gritty of this craft, let’s get right into the list. We’ve included various fantastic designs to spoil you for choice! Ranging from dainty keychains and simple bracelets to stunning DIY bags and plant hangers. You’ll find plenty of inspiration to kickstart your macramé journey!
DIY Macramé Feathers
If you have seen our other articles before, you’ve definitely laid your eyes on these fantastic DIY macramé feathers. They’re effortless to make and replicate those stunning feather-like textures with an animal brush by brushing out the cords.
DIY Beginner Macramé Garland
Learn how to macramé these rustic boho garlands to decorate your home with your handmade projects! It adds a lovely beach vibe to your home decor and is super easy to make! All you need to do now is click the link below and follow the step-by-step instructions.
Macramé Daisy Keychain Tutorial
We have these gorgeous two-color daisy macrame keychains for you to try! This tutorial will give you a rundown of all the knots needed and guide you on how to macramé these keychains from start to finish. Make these keychains for yourself and your friends today!
DIY Jar Hanger
Five minutes is all it takes to craft this simple jar hanger! This beginner design will have you falling head over heels as it is made with easy macrame knots! Perfect for adding a touch of handmade charm to your home decor! You can add small plants to the jar to make it an indoor jar hanger or fill it with decorative lights for a nighttime ambiance in your garden.
Gorgeous Fringe Boho Bag
Though this bohemian-inspired fringe handbag may seem complex to make, it’s actually a beginner-friendly design! This beautiful bag is made of three basic macrame knots: the lark’s head knot, square knot, and double half-hitch knot. Try making one today!
Simple DIY Necklace
Ever wondered how to make your own necklaces through macrame? Well, this tutorial will guide you from start to finish on how you can create one for yourself and your friends! It’s chic, elegant, and gorgeous to pair with any article of clothing from your wardrobe.
Mini Macrame Christmas Ornaments
Though Christmas is months away, you can still make these adorable mini Christmas ornaments to start prepping for your holiday decor! The best part of this project is that no macramé experience is required! So, you can easily craft these up in a jiffy and make more Christmas ornaments until December.
Hexnut Bracelet
Make your own friendship bracelets with your friends over a warm, sunny afternoon by following along with this tutorial! It’s made of only square knots, which makes it very easy and straightforward to craft. Just click the link below, and you’ll make a bunch of these in no time.
DIY Round Boho Coasters
Here’s another macramé coaster design you can whip up in a day! They’re so adorable and add a cute bohemian flair to your home decor, too! They’re practical and functional and help keep your table surface clean from any rings or beverage residue from your mugs.
DIY Camera Strap
Did you know you can craft your very own camera strap? This project is perfect for those of you who love carrying your cameras everywhere you go! Since regular straps can sometimes cause friction around your skin, these soft macramé straps will make it extra comfy to hang around your neck for hours on end.
Easy Spring Hoop Wreath
Though spring has gracefully ended, you can still whip these up for next year or any time of the year! They’re so easy to make, and it adds such a lovely boho-chic vibe to your home decor! If you have a shed or a beach house, even better, as these can elevate the look of your decor! Try it out now!
DIY Macramé Leaf/Feather
Speaking of home decor, learn how to make these fantastic DIY leaves as a decorative accent for your home. This project also teaches you to incorporate a Dollar Tree mophead instead of macramé cords! Isn’t that cool? It’s budget-friendly and an excellent method to reuse materials at home.
Easy Macramé Plant Hanger
Try Sarah’s easy plant hanger tutorial to spice up your home decor with a vintage-inspired craft! With a little bit of practice, you can master this lovely decorative piece in no time! Make one or a few as a memorable gift to your friends, too!
Easy Beaded Macramé Plant Hanger
Here’s another easy plant hanger design you can try making over the weekend. It’s effortless to make, and you can decorate the hanging cords with wooden beads for a little extra pizzazz. Add a cute little plant or a succulent in the jar to add a touch of greenery indoors.
Mini Checkered Wall Hanging
Made with easy macramé knots, spruce up your empty bedroom walls with this mini checkered wall hanging! Though you can quickly master this project from this video tutorial, the author also has a blog of written instructions to guide you through and through to make this gorgeous piece.
DIY Macramé Diamond Keychain
If you’re looking for a project to practice your double half-hitch knots, this DIY diamond keychain is ideal for you. It’s simple to make and inexpensive to whip up this design within a day! How fun is that?
DIY Simple Wall Hanging
Wall hangings are always trendy to fill up empty spaces in any part of your home. They add a cute decorative flair to your walls and are a great way to show off your handmade work, too! All you need is to make multiple lark’s head knots on the dowel and let the cords dangle on their own. Pretty easy, right?
Bloom Flower Bag Tutorial
This has to be our favorite design on the list! Don’t you just love how gorgeous this handmade macramé bag is? Though it may look challenging, it’s a beginner-friendly pattern! Since it’s a big project, familiarise yourself with the basic knots and be patient with this piece, as it will take time to complete.
Ochre Macramé Wall Hanging
Can’t get enough of cute wall hangings? Here’s another variation that you can try making! This one offers more design, and it’s beginner-friendly. Just click the link below and scroll to the bottom of the article to watch the in-depth video tutorial. Happy knotting!
Wing Bracelet
Learn how to make this beautiful wing bracelet for your best friends! Isn’t it so creative? To make it more personalized, add a dainty charm or bead in the center to pull the design together. It also helps to separate the wings!
DIY 3 Styles of Macrame Friendship Bracelets
This blog will teach you how to make three different macrame friendship bracelet designs! All you need to get started is to purchase some waxed cotton cords from your local craft store. This blog has an in-depth video tutorial to teach you how to make all three designs in one sitting.
Kiwi Mini Tote Bag Tutorial
Here's another super easy and simple macramé project for beginners! This video tutorial on YouTube will guide you to making this exquisite and gorgeous mini tote bag that you can use daily! Perfect to wear on an outing with your friends.
Heart Shape Macramé Coasters
If you’re looking for Valentine-themed decor, this video tutorial is just what you need! Make it for a friend for Galentines or your partner as a thoughtful handmade gift. It’s made with only square knots and the lark’s head knot, so it’s pretty simple. Try it out now!
DIY Macramé Bookmark
For all you bookworms, this DIY bookmark will add an adorable personal touch to your reading experience. Just follow along with the video tutorial, and you’ll be surprised by how fast you can complete this design that is filled with hearts.
2-Tier Macramé Flower Coaster
This macramé for beginners project is one you must try out! This in-depth tutorial teaches how to make these amazing 2-tier flower coasters. The best part about this design is that it only uses one knot throughout the entire piece! Pretty easy, right?