Holidays are just around the corner…are you interested in creating some great Christmas decorations from macrame, or are you thinking of making gifts for others? Well actually, this pattern doubles as both!  The macrame Christmas Tree Pattern is wonderful to decorate your home, and it makes a great gift too. The finished size of the piece is going to be about 31 inches long, so choose a nice spot on the wall to hang this beauty!

Macrame Christmas Tree Pattern

Materials Needed:

• 41 yds. 7-ply 8mm jute
• 30, 20mm round red wood beads
• 1 dowel rod, 1 1/2″ diameter X 17″ long
• 1 good sized  ribbon bow and decoration (think red velvet)
• 1,1%” ring

Step by Step Instructions:

1. Cut 14 cords, 2 1/2 yds. each.
2. Cut 2 cords 3 yds. each.
1. Mount 2 of the 2′/2-yd. cords on the I 1/2″ ring with
Lark’s Head knots
2. Skip down to 17 inches and mount cords near ends of
dowel with Double Half Hitch knots.
3. Fold each of the two 3-yd. cords in half and mount one
on each of the outside cords of steps 1 and 2, with Lark’s
Heads, close to top. Double Half Hitch these mounted cords
to the inside cords of steps 1 and 2.
4. Slide one bead on the 2 center cords nearest the top and,
with the middle 4 cords, tie one Square Knot right below bead.
5. Mount two 2 1/2 yd. cords, one on each outside cord, with
Lark’s Heads, about one inch from previous Lark’s Head
(step 3), and Double Half Hitch these to the inside cords as
you did in step 3.
6. Divide cords into 2 groups, 4 cords in each group. The 2
center cords of each group are filler cords. Slide one bead up
the 2 filler cords of each group and tie one Square Knot below
each bead.
7. Mount 2 more cords on the outside side-cords, as before,
and Double Half Hitch these to the inside side-cords (as
before).
8. Divide cords into 3 groups, 4 cords in each group, and
with 3 beads, repeat as in step 6.
9. Add 2 more cords as in step 7.
10. Divide cords into 4 groups, 4 cords to each group, and
with 4 beads, repeat as in step 6.
11. Drop down about 1 xh inches and tie one row of 4 Square
Knots.
12. Add 2 more cords as in step 7. Divide cords into 5 groups
of 4 cords each and, with 5 beads, repeat as in step 6.
13. Add 2 more cords as in step 7; divide cords into 6 groups
and repeat as in step 6. Repeat this step one more time, using
7 beads the last time.
14. Double Half Hitch all cords to the dowel rod, and place
one bead on each end of dowel rod.
15. Gather all cords together with a ribbon bow about 4
inches below the dowel rod. Insert decoration in bow, if
desired.

Hang it up where everyone can enjoy it!

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Macrame Pilgrim pattern from www.free-macrame-patterns.com

I wanted to share with you this fun little thanksgiving pattern for wall hanging pilgrim to decorate your home this thanksgiving season.  This fun project is available at Free Macrame Patterns

From their website:

The Thanksgiving Pilgrim is an interesting holiday decoration that is meant to hang on a wall.

“This Macrame Pattern features a tall top hat that is decorated with a band an buckle, and a unique collar that rests below the full beard. You can make the beard with a variety of materials, including yarn.

The finished height is 20 inches”. Visit the link above to get the full instructions and supplies list.If you need to order some macrame supplies visit Acajou online at the highlighted link.

Hope you enjoy!

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Welcome to October Macrame Lovers! I have searched the web high and low for you to come up with some Halloween inspired macrame crafts. This was not an easy task! Here’s the roundup:

Macrame Halloween jewelry from "This Year's Dozen"

Macrame Halloween Necklace from "This Year's Dozen"

Both of the above can be found at This Year’s Dozen

macrame spider from Etsy

This friendly little creature is a handmade one of a kind black macrame spider from Etsy artist KnotartWA. Sorry it’s sold!

And of course, we could not forget this very creative piece, a mask designed to accommodate glasses. I would love to know what the rest of the costume looked like! As always, I would love to see your macrame Halloween projects!

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macrame belt using cotton cord

Cotton fibers are shorter than jute, hemp, or linen and need more of a twist to get them to stay together so that they form a strand.  You can buy cotton cording in most fabric and sewing stores where you live as well as from weaving suppliers.  Single ply cotton is often used for Macrame projects that you’re going to wear, such as a belt.  Cotton cording comes in a wide variety of sizes and is used in many Macrame projects. You can order cotton cord from most of these online macrame supplies stores.

An important consideration when choosing the type of cord for your project is how will the finished item be used? Will it be outside, like a plant hanger? You’d want something fade-proof. Are you making a hammock? You’ll want cord that is soft to the touch. Does it need to hold its shape? Just a few tips for consideration.

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This is an example of a double half hitch knot

The Half Hitch Knot is a single wrap of one strand around another strand.  Bring the end of the cord between the working and the anchor strands.

1. Wrap macrame cord around a knitting needle.

2. Cross the short end under the longer length of the cord.

3. Bring the short end of macrame cord over and down through the hole between where the cord crosses and the needle.

4. Push the knot to the needle and pull macrame cord to tighten!

This macrame knot is easy but you will find yourself using quite frequently, so definitely one that you want to take the time to learn to do it evenly.

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Today I am going to talk to you about how to keep your work even
and uniform.  This is what really separates an “ok” looking piece from a striking piece that looks professional. We’ve all had a project that just turned out ugly. We don’t need to show any images for this post, let’s not embarrass ourselves! Ok, so how to create a uniform macrame knot? It is actually quite easy to implement:

As you become more experienced in the art of Macrame you’ll want to
focus even more on keeping your work even and uniform.  You’ll want
the tension to be even and your line of knots to be straight
horizontally, vertically, and diagonally.  You’ll be looking for
edges that are firm and loops that are even.

Use a project board to keep your knots uniform looking

The easiest and most reliable way to achieve this perfection is by
using the Macrame board, or other anchoring methods, to secure your
work while you’re working.  The Macrame board will help you keep
the size of your knots even and the pattern of your project uniform.

Get into the habit of securing your work before you tie that first
knot.  Use T-pins to hold your work in place on the project board.

You’ll soon find that your Macrame projects look even with
knots that align and are the same size.

I hope you liked today’s tip.  If you want more information,
patterns, knot guidance, pictures galore, lists of suppliers and so
much more.  Check out my book “One Stop Macrame Shop”, simply click
on this link:

Macrame Guide

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This key chain is another beginner macrame project that will allow you to become more familiar and comfortable with the process of Macrame. This one is great for kids too. If you don’t know how to macrame, this one will be a great first project to try. You can also find other great macrame patterns for beginners if you want to check out more patterns.

Materials:

1.      6 yards of 1mm hemp (choose something colorful)

2.    3 beads

3.    1 key ring

4.    masking tape & project board

Directions:

1.      Cut the 6 yards of hemp into two equal halves, 3 yards each.

2.    Fold each cord in half and use a Half Hitch to secure them to the metal key ring by placing the folded end of the cord down through the key ring and pulling the ends of the cord down through the folded end of the loop.

3.    The key ring will now have two cords attached so that you have 4 working cords.

4.    Secure the key ring to your Macrame board.

5.     Make 4 Square Knots.

6.    Pull the first  bead onto the 2 middle cords.

7.     Place a Square Knot directly below the bead.

8.    Add another bead, creating another Square Knot directly below the bead.

9.    Repeat one more time.

10.   Make 3 more Square Knots under the last bead.

11.  Tie the 4 cords into one large knot.

12.   Trim the knot.

Add your keys and you are ready! For another fun and easy macrame pattern, try the sunflower necklace.

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Just a quick macrame plant hanger pattern for you this lovely fall day. Enjoy!

Materials:

• 44 yards of either 4mm or 6mm Bonnie Braid Cord
• One 2″ brass ring
• Four 22 x 32mm oval wood beads
• Sixteen 16mm round wood beads

Instructions:

1. Cut 8 cords at 5 yards each, and two cords at 1 yard each.

2. Center the eight 5 yard cords through the 2″ ring. Using one of the 1 yard cords, tie a wrap knot around all cords directly under the ring.

3. Divide the long cords into four groups of four cords each. With each group:

Tie 9″ of Half Square Knots, put all four cords through a 22 x 32mm bead, and using the longest cords for tying, tie another 9″ of Square Knots.

4.  Drop down approximately 5″ and tie on row of Alternating Square Knots. (This joins all 4 sinnets). Drop down 3″ and tie another row of alternating Square Knots. Drop down approximately 3″ and using the last one yard cord, tie a wrap knot around the cords.

5.   Put a 16mm wood bead on each cord end at desired length; tie an overhand knot to secure under each bead. Cut, seal ends with lighter.

6. Mount the plant hanger to a ceiling hook, add a plant and you’re done!

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Macrame’s history is as colorfully rich as the cords and beads it uses. Elevated to an art form, macrame essentially creates numerous possibilities in a project. The finished pieces may be seen as works of art because of the complexity of techniques as well as the wellspring creativity that goes into making them.

TRIVIA: Just what is the origin of Macrame? Macrame is an Arabic word that means fringe and is derived from the early practice of knotting a fringe to a solid fabric in a continuation of knotted patterns.

Eventually, entire pieces of knotted fabrics were created with a texture that was perfect for altar cloths, church vestments, and doilies.

The early history of Macrame is a bit vague.  There is some documentation, which indicates that Macrame was done in France and Italy in the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries.  France has produced a large amount of Macrame, and historical data shows that it was considered to be an established art.

Macrame was then quite popular in the nineteenth century among British and North American sailors, who spent their long hours aboard ships tying square knots and hitch knots.  Sailors made fringes for wheel and bell covers, as well as netting and screens.  Many of these knotted articles were then used for barter in India and China.

TRIVIA: If you want to see some fine examples of sailor’s Macrame, visit the Seamen’s Church Institute in the city of New York. There you will a collection of the finest pieces these men of the sea have created with their masculine hands.

Macrame is thought to have been introduced to Great Britain in the late 1600’s by Queen Mary, who herself learned the craft in Holland.  During the 1780’s Queen Charlotte, wife to George III, was busy knotting Macrame fringes for court adornments.

Macrame continued to make itself known around the world and many cultures already had some form of knot tying in place that they used for their native art.

Korean maedeup master Kim Hee-jin, 74

TRIVIA: The art of knot tying in Korea is called maedeup. In China, they have traditional decorative knots, which is called in Pinyin as Zhōngguó jié. In Japan, there are many types of crafts, such as Kumihimo and Hanamusubi, which tends to focus on individual knots.

Through the early twentieth century, many functional objects were the focus of Macrame, such as purses, belts, leashes, lanyards, light and shade pulls, and bell pulls.  At the same time, in Portugal, Ecuador, and Mexico, local artists continued to produce shawls and purses as a native craft.

In North America, through the 1960’s and 1970’s, Macrame became a popular craft among the hippie generation and the children of the ‘70s.  In the 1980’s interest in Macrame dwindled, and soon, faded from memory.  Not so today, as Macrame is making a huge comeback among people of all ages.

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As you become more experienced in the art of Macrame you’ll want to focus even more on keeping your work even and uniform.  You’ll want the tension to be even and your line of knots to be straight horizontally, vertically, and diagonally.  You’ll be looking for edges that are firm and loops that are even.

The easiest and most reliable way to achieve this perfection is by using the Macrame board, or other anchoring methods, to secure your work while you’re working.  The Macrame board will help you keep the size of your knots even and the pattern of your project uniform.

A great way to develop the skill of tying uniform knots is to practice. I recommend saving leftover bits of cording that you can later use to practice tying knots on. As you practice, your knots will become more uniform and even with time. This really is the secret to great macrame.

Get into the habit of securing your work before you tie that first knot.  You’ll soon find that your Macrame projects look even  with knots that align and are the same size. And that makes for better looking macrame!

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Sherri Stokey is one of my favorite macrame artists on Etsy. Her work features delicate and super feminine micro macrame. Sherri often takes her inspiration from nature and vintage clothing. She provides deliciously vivid background on the inspiration behind many of her pieces, for example:

“Undulating waves of seed beads in wonderfully beachy colors including the soft matte turquoise green of sea glass are accented by the soft sandy color cord used to tie them all together to make this great bracelet. Such a pretty piece – you’ll want to wear it every day.”

Delicious! This one reminds me of a summer day. I actually own several of Sherri’s pieces which are very reasonable, and Sherri has graciously contributed many images which are featured here on the Macrame Lovers Blog. Check out her Etsy store:

Sherri’s Etsy Store

You can also find Sherri’s work under the Etsy name ss10001. Sherri is a great example of someone earning a little bit from her hobby, which as we all know can get quite expensive!

I would love to hear from more Etsy artists! Do you have a favorite? Please share with us!

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Macrame Handbag

This simple to follow macrame pattern for a handbag or purse uses only 2 knots, the Larks Head Knot and the Square Knot. Choose a fresh summer color for your new handbag. This pattern for a purse calls for purse handles, but you could simply use dowel rods or metal rods to attach the row of knows to. It’s fun to add your own creative spin each project. Another great way to personalize it is by adding a liner. I personally love a bright pop of color in the liner, such as a satin tangerine or turquoise. Paisley prints also make great purse liners.

Finished size: 13″ x 101/2″ (plus handles)

Materials Needed:

• 110 yds. 6mm polypropylene cord
• 1 pair of purse handles with 8″ slots

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut 44 cords  2 1/2 yds.  Each.

2. Mount 14 cords on each handle with Lark’s Heads. Tie a row of Square Knots on each handle close under Lark’s Head (There should be 7 Square Knots on each of the handles).

3. Fold 2 more cords in half and then pin the centers side by side on your project board. With the 4 working cords, tie a Square Knot. Bring the knot all the way to pins so no loops are above knot. Set aside.

4. Repeat step 3 seven additional times.

5. Secure a purse handle onto your project board and, on the left side of the Square Knot under handle, then pin 2 of the Square Knot sections tied in step 3. Pin side by side. Do the same on right side. Tie a row of alternating Square Knots across purse, beginning with 4 cords on the far left (there should be a total of 10 knots in all).

6. Repeat step 5 on the other handle. You will have used all the cords now.

7. Place the front and back sides of purse together with the insides facing each other, and hold using your knees. Now tie a Square Knot withthe 2 outside cords from the front and the 2 outside cords from the back of the purse. Now tie the knot tight and up close to the other Square Knots. Repeat on other edge of purse. This will join the front and backs together; the purse will now be worked like a tube.

8. Now tie 16 rows of alternating Square Knots, turning your purse as you knot.

9. Turn your purse inside side out and place between your knees, with bottom side up. Be sure the sides are correctly lined up. Start with the farthest 6 cords, tie 2 Square Knots, using 4 filler cords.

10. Next, use the next 2 cords from each side and tie a tight Square Knot, using 1 cord from each side as a filler cord and 1 cord from each side as the tying cord. Continue this across the bottom until there are 6 cords left. Tie 2 Square Knots, using 4 filler cords.

11. If using polypropylene cord, cut all cords, leaving about 1/2″ left. Fuse the adjacent ends together or glue them together. Your purse is finished, you can add a brightly colored liner if desired.

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Beads and other items are often added to Macrame projects to make them interesting, unique, and rich with design.  You can purchase beads of all kinds from beading and craft stores, as well as from many distributors on the Internet.  A past post on macrame supplies will point you in the right direction for where you can purchase everything you need.  All you need to do is make sure that the holes in the beads are large enough for the cording to strand through easily.  To add the beads you simply slide them onto the cording between or in the middle of knots.

When you’re adding beads to a project you’ll want to look for beads that are unique and unusual so that they stand out in the Macrame pattern.  You’ll find beads in a variety of styles, sizes, and shapes that includes flowers, symbols, and charms. This place has wonderful beads with intricate flower designs:

Acajou Beads

Search for beads that will complement the Macrame pattern that you’re working.  You’ll want to choose beads with a color and texture that are going to enhance your project.

Macrame beads as used by macrame artist Sophine Giam

For smaller projects you’ll want to use beads that are soft and delicate while your larger Macrame projects will need large, textured beads.  Take your time looking for the right beads for your project and dare to experiment with new ideas.

The one thing that you need to ensure when you’re purchasing beads for your Macrame projects is that the cording will fit through the bead center.  Keep in mind that many times you’ll be using several strands of cording that will need to fit through the bead so be sure to choose beads that are large enough.

When you’re working the bead into the strands of cording you’ll need to position the bead carefully into the pattern as per the project instructions.  In most cases the bead will be worked into the project following a series of knots, followed by another series of knots to keep the bead secure.

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This Macrame pattern is great for a creating a guitar strap for someone musical in your life.  Not too late to whip this one out for a Christmas present. Might need some help from Santa’s little macrame elves to get all your macrame gifts done in time, so go ahead and get started while you have plenty of time!

Although the directions may seem a bit complex, the pattern is an easy one to follow!

Materials Needed for this Macrame Project:

1.      100 yards if 3.5mm Polypropylene cording

2.    Cut two pieces of cording 20 yards each.

3.    Cut two pieces of cording 19 yards each.

4.    Cut two pieces of cording 18 yards each.

Directions:

1.      Take one of the 20 yard cords and fold it in half, pinning the center to the Macrame board.  Fold the other 20 yard cord in half and tie a Square Knot Sinnet around the first cord about half ways in from the fold in the first cord.

2.    Tie the Square Knot Sinnet for 1 ½ inches.

3.    Drop down by 1 inch and tie another Square Knot Sinnet, continuing the knots for 3 ½ inches.  This area of the pattern will be the neck of the guitar strap.

4.    Add the two 19 yard cords.  Fold each cord in half and pin it to the Macrame board on either side of the working cords.

5.     Number the cording from 1 – 8, moving from left to right.  You’ll use cords 1 and 4, 5 and 8, as the knotting cords.  Tie a Square Knot with each grouping of cords.

6.    Tie a Square Knot with the 3 and 6 cords as the knotting cords.

7.     Repeat step 5 and step 6 for a series of five times, making sure that you end on a single Square Knot.

8.    Add the 18 yard cords.  Repeat from step 4.  Fold each cord in half and pin it to the Macrame board on either side of the working cords.

9.    Number the cording from 1 – 12, moving from left to right.  Use cords 1 and 4, 5 and 8, 9 and 12, as the knotting cords.  Tie a Square Knot with each grouping of cords.

10.            Tie a Square Knot with cords 3 and 6, 7 and 10, as the knotting cords.

11.  Repeat step 9 and step 10 until you are 1 inch from the center of the guitar strap.

12.When you reach the last set of two Square Knots add one more Square Knot directly under and in the center of the last two knots.  You’ll be making a “V” with the Square Knots.

13.Once again number the cords 1 – 12, moving from left to right.  Take cord 1 and bring it across cords 2 – 6 at an angle of 45 degrees. Double half hitch cords 2 – 6 onto cord 1.

14.Taking cord 12 bring it across cords 11 – 17 at an angle of 45 degrees.  Double half hitch cords 11 – 7 onto cord 12.  Then double half hitch cord 1 onto cord 12 so that the top of the knotting is closed.

15. You’re now ready to make the bottom of the strap.  Number the cords 1 – 12, moving from left to right.  Use cords 6 and 7 as the anchoring cords.  Take cord 6 and bring it across cords 5 – 1 at an angle of 45 degrees.  Double half hitch cords 5 -1 onto cord 6.

16.Take cord 7 and bring it across cords 8 – 12 at an angle of 45 degrees.  Double half hitch cords 8 – 12 onto cord 7.

17. Take the four center cords at the bottom of the “V’ and tie a Square Knot by using the two outside cords as the knotting cords and the two cords in the middle as the filler cords.

18.Repeat step 9 and step 10 for the same number of knots that you created above.  End the pattern on a two-knot grouping. When you reach the last set of two Square Knots add one more Square Knot directly under and in the center of the last two knots.  You’ll be making a “V” with the Square Knots.

19.Repeat step 13 and step 14 two times to make a double row of double half hitches.

20.          Number the cords 1 – 12, moving from left to right.  Take cords 1 and 2, 11 and 12, cut the double half hitch and carefully fuse the ends of the cording.

21.Renumber the remaining cords 1 – 8, moving from left to right.  Tie a Square Knot with cords 1 – 4 and 5 – 8.  This will give you two Square Knots.

22.           Using cords 3 – 6 tie a Square Knot under the grouping of knots that you created in step 21.  Repeat this knotting pattern until you have reached the desired length of the guitar strap.

23.           End the project pattern by decreasing the “V”.  This is done by tying rows of the diagonal double half hitch using step 13 and step 14.  Each time that you begin a new row drop one cord on each side, fusing the ends of the dropped cording.

If you are looking for more macrame patterns that would make good gifts, there are many here. Enjoy!

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We all know about Etsy as THE place for handmade items and artisan wares. The other day, I came across another brilliant resource for artists called:

Handmade Artists Forum It’s a very active artist community with contests, forums, articles, inspiration and a marketplace for artists to sell their crafts. If you are already selling your macrame pieces on Etsy, why not offer your macrame handiwork in a second marketplace as well? It can’t hurt, and its a great way to build even more connections and network within the community.If you are looking to expand your circle of knowledge, reaching out to other artists is a great way to go. You can trade macrame patterns, share photos and keep one another inspired. In fact, that is what this blog is all about. I started macrame lovers blog with the idea of sharing ideas, resources and just developing a community around macrame.

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Materials:

1.      1 piece of 6 foot cording, in natural color

2.    1 piece of 4 foot cording, in a soft contrasting color

3.    3 large beads

4.    1 toggle clasp (available in craft stores)

5.     scissors

6.    glue

7.     T-pins

8.    Macrame board

Directions:

1.      Thread both pieces of cording through the loop of one part of the toggle clasp.

2.    Pull the cording so that the toggle clasp is in the center of both of the cords.  Make sure that the shorter length of cording is in the middle and the longer lengths of cording are on the outside.

3.    Tie an Overhand Knot.  Push down the knot so that it’s up tight against the toggle loop.

4.    Position the cords on the Macrame board so that the longer cords are once again on the outside and the shorter cords are on the inside.

5.     Make the first Square Knot, starting with a Half Knot.  Bring the right cord over the two center cords.  Pull the right strand under the left cord.

6.    Bring the left cord under the two center cords and then pull it up through the loop that has been created by the right cord in the previous step.

7.     Pull the knot tightly up against the Overhand Knot.

8.    Bring the right cord under the two center cords and then pull it over the left cord.  (this step is the opposite of step 5)

9.    Complete the Square Knot by bringing the cord on the left up through the loop and pulling the knot tightly.  The completed Square Knot should look like a small “V”.

10.  Continue making Square Knots, repeating steps 5 to 9, until you have 2 inches of Square Knots.

11.  Place the first bead onto the two center cords and push the bead up tight against the Square Knots.

12.  Bring the two outside cords down and pull them around the bead.  Tie 2 Square Knots.

13.  Place the second bead onto the pattern and tie 2 more Square Knots.

14.  Place the third bead onto the pattern and tie 2 inches of Square Knots

15.  Thread the opposite side of the toggle clasp through the 4 pieces of cord and tie an Overhand Knot (just as you did in step 3).

16.  Trim off any excess cording.  Apply glue to the Overhand Knot.

17.  Let the glue dry thoroughly before wearing your new Macrame bracelet!

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In researching a blog post on the “History of Macrame”, I came across this wonderful article in the Korea Times that talks about the ancient Korean art of maedeup, the art of tying knots. For those of you that love these little history bits, enjoy!

Korean Macrame: Maedeup

Macrame and the art of tying knots is something enjoyed by many cultures around the world. It’s fun to learn about how other cultures have developed their own version of macrame, and the types of patterns they have. Plus you can discover new knots, which is always fun.

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MacraMe is an artist team of two sisters from Argentina named Mariana and Paula. They focus on one item really: macrame owls.  What really caught my eye is the interesting way they photograph their pieces. It really makes those little owls come to life!

These little macrame owls seem to be having adventures all over the world! It’s really a simple, yet ingenious concept-they photograph their owls strategically placed over photographs (magazine images, perhaps?) and the models appear to be wearing the owls or interacting with them.

This sister duo have been very successful on Etsy, selling well over a 1,000 pieces to date. And who can resist a cute little macrame owl for only $10? Super cute, and a great example of a macrame artist making an income from doing what they love. Check out their store on Etsy right here: MacraMe

Enjoy!

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This beaded macrame bracelet is simple to make yet still very elegant to wear.  The bracelet is a favorite among teens. For Cassandra in Brisbane, this would be an excellent project for your girls to learn macrame. It’s very simple!

Materials:

1.      2 yards of 1mm hemp

2.    opaque beads, 6 different colors, and 5 beads of each color.

Directions:

1.      Cut one length of cord to 12 inches for the center cord.

2.    Fold the remaining hemp cord in half.

3.    Place the center cord between the fold.

4.    Hold all 3 cords together and tie and Overhand Knot (make a circle and pull all the cords through).  Pull the knot tightly so that you end up with a loop of 3/8 inches at the top.

5.     Create a Square Knot by pulling the left cord in front of the center cord.  Pull the right cord over the left cord and then around the back of the center cord.  Pull it through the loop and pull tight.

6.    Reverse the Square Knot:  pull the right cord in from of the center cord.  Pull the left cord and around the back of the center cord.  Pull it through the loop and pull tight.

7.     Make 5 more knots.

8.    Tie the first half of the Square Knot and then thread on black bead onto the center cord.  Tie the second half of the Square Knot.

9.    Thread a black bead onto each outside cord and tie the first half of the Square Knot.

10.            Thread 2 black beads onto the center cord and tie the second half of the Square Knot.

11.  Repeat this process for each color of bead.

12.Tie 5 Square Knots.

13.Tie all 3 of the cords in an Overhand Knot.  This ending Overhand Knot will slip through the loop on the other end of the bracelet to secure it around your wrist.

14. Trim the cording to a desired length, such as 1 inch or longer.

Enjoy!

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Created by Charlie Emery

This gorgeous macrame belt is made with leather cords.

Materials:

-28yds. Leather lacing 3/16 wide

-Two 2in. Brass rings

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I have gotten a lot of emails from readers looking to get macrame cord and supplies from a company that will ship internationally. I came upon this macrame supplies store today and just wanted to put this out there for everyone, the site is European but appears to handle international shipping no problem. Here’s the link: Macrame Supplies for International customers. Do you know of other suppliers for South Africa, Peru, Israel, etc.?

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TRIVIA: Tying knots helps to increase your fine motor skills and bilateral dexterity. It is a perfect exercise for those with joint and muscle pain in their hands and fingers.

Macrame is a great craft to pursue because it is a good form of exercise for the fingers and the wrist.   Your joints will remain loose and strong when you put them through the motions of tying macrame knots.

As well, Macrame is great for distressing and relaxing at the end of the day.  You will start to feel relaxed and satisfied after tying a few knots and this leads to feelings of satisfaction when you see the results of your handiwork.

As well, Macrame is great for distressing and relaxing at the end of the day.  You will start to feel relaxed and satisfied after tying a few knots and this leads to feelings of satisfaction when you see the results of your handiwork.

If you know someone that suffers from joint pain, why don’t you try sharing a simple knot tying project with them to see if they experience any relief from the pain in their hands? Sometimes keeping the hands and fingers active can really help. So get out there and share your love of macrame with someone who could use a little bit of hand exercise!

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This Irish linen cord is waxed for stiffness

Linen cording comes in a wide variety of colors and weights which makes it very desirable for many knotting patterns.  Linen has the strength and diversity that many other types of cording don’t have, making it great for Macrame projects that need to be strong and durable.  Linen cording is often used in Macrame wall hangings and looks great when combined with other types of cording, such as cotton and silk.  The one thing that you need to keep in mind is that linen cording will fray easily so you’ll have to be very sure to finish off the ends of your project carefully.

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Sunglasses? Yes, actually! Thought I’d post this delicious creation from Claude Bossett based in Austria. It appears this very unique artist has created these macrame sunglasses, and is currently investigating if there is a market for this high end type of luxury item. I’ll be keeping an eye on this site to see where they go with this. Very interesting indeed. You just never know how macrame is going to pop up in another form? You can check out more of this designer’s work at:

http://www.bossett.com

Luxury fashion: macrame sunglasses

Macrame Sunglasses: front view

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Macrame tote by Elvis Klaye

With summer upon us, I thought everyone might want to consider a making themselves a macrame purse or tote. This one’s roomy enough to toss in a swimsuit, a good book and a bottle of water. Isn’t that the ultimate recipe for summer fun? One of our readers, Elvis from the UK sent us several great photos of some macrame bags, and so I thought it would be great to feature a pattern to along with the image so others can create their own macrame bag. In the photo, a second color was used to give it some pizazz, but the pattern below is just one color. Of course feel free to put your own creative twist into it like Elvis did.

Market Tote

Finished size: 13 1/2  x 10″ (plus handles)

Materials Needed:

• 104 yds. 6mm or 7mm polypropylene cord
• Pins
• Project board

Preparation: Cut 36 cords, 2 ¼ yds. long, 4 cords 2 ½ yds. long, 4 cords

3 ¼ yds. long.

Tote Handles

Tip: you could easily adapt to use wood or plastic handles if you prefer.

1.      Pin the centers of 2 of the 2 ½ yd. cords side by

side on board, with 2 ends going up over top of board and

2 ends hanging down. Pin the centers of two 3 ¼ yd. cords

on each side o1 the 21/2-yd. cords — you will have 4 cords

with the short ones in the middle. Tie a sinnet of 9 Square

Knots with these 4 cords, starting in the center. Turn cords around and tie 9 Square Knots in the other direction. Remove from project board.

2.      Repeat step 2 with the other 2 ½ yd. and 3 ¼ yd cords.

3.      Fold 2 of the 2 ¼ yd. cords in half and pin side by side on

board. Pin at centers, all ends hanging down—giving you

4 working cords. With these, tie a Square Knot. Bring the

Square Knot up close to the pins so no loops will be above

pins. Do this 11 more times, using 22 more cords. You will

have 12 Square Knot sections in all. Put them aside.

4.      Pin one of the handles on the board, in an arc, with the last

Square Knots on each end about 5 inches apart.

Body of Tote-Front Side

5.      Fold a 2 ¼ yd. cord in half (making 2 working cords)

and pin it to the right of the left end of handle. Tie a Square

Knot with these and the 2 right cords from (left end of)

handle. Bring knot up close to pin so no loops will be

above the knot. Pin another cord beside this Square Knot

(making 2 working cords) and tie an alternating Square

Knot (see knotting section), using the 4 outside cords (2

from previous knot plus the new cords). Repeat this again,

adding on one more cord. You will have added on 3 cords

and tied 3 Square Knots (2 of them alternating Square

Knots) to the inside of handle.

6.      Repeat step 6, adding 3 cords to the left side of the right

end of handle, working toward the knots tied in step 6.

7.      Tie the right and left side together by tying a Square Knot

with the 4 center cords. You will now have a “V” shape.

8.      Pin one of the Square Knot sections tied in step 4 to the

left of the handle. Tie together with an alternating Square

Knot, using the 2 left cords from handle and 2 right cords

from the Square Knot. Pin another section to the left of the

one you just added and tie an alternating Square Knot. Do

the same with one more section.

9.      Repeat step 9 on the right side.

10.  Number cords, from left to right, 1-22.

• Tie a Square Knot with cords 5-8, 9-12,13-16.
• Next row: cords 7-10,11-14,15-18.
• Next row: cords 9-12, 13-16, 17-20.

11. Repeat step 11 on the right side, numbering from right to left.

Body of Tote-Back Side

12. Repeat steps 5-12 for other side (back) of tote.

13. Hold the front and back sides together (with insides facing each other)

between your knees, and then tie a Square Knot with the two end

cords from front and the two end cords from back. Under this

knot, tie 2 alternating Square Knots. On the next row, tie 3

alternating Square Knots. Final row, tie 4 alternating

Square Knots. You will have filled in one edge of tote

with Square Knots.

14.  Repeat step 14 on the other side. You now have a

complete row of Square Knots around the tote.

15. Tote will now be worked as a tube. Tie 13 rows of

alternating Square Knots.

16. Turn tote wrong side out and place between your knees,

with the bottom side up. Check that front and back sides are

aligned. Starting with the farthest 6 cords, tie 2 Square

Knots, using 4 filler cords. Use the next 2 cords from each

side (4 total) and tie a tight Square Knot, using one cord

from each side as a filler and one from each side as a tying

cord. Continue this way across bottom until 6 cords are

left. With these 6 cords, tie 2 Square Knots using 4 filler

cords.

17. If using polypropylene or polyolefin cord, cut cords

leaving about ½ “. Pick up 2 cords, side by side, heat

ends and fuse together, or glue each bottom knot with a clear glue, cutting ends when it has had enough time to dry.

18. If you would like a lining, go ahead and turn the tote inside out and add lining.

Tip: For a modern edge to your tote, why not add a pop of color with a brightly colored or funky pattern lining.

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This simple pattern uses alternating square knots to create a bi-colored collar for your dog.  The collar fits a medium sized dog.  For a smaller or larger dog simply reduce or increase the length of cording used.

Supplies Needed for this project:

1.       two 4-yard lengths of natural hemp, 1mm size

2.      two 4-yard lengths of forest green hemp (or color of choice), 1mm size.

Directions:

1.       Fold one natural strand in half.

2.      Hold the remaining strands together and tie around the first in a half knot ¾ inches from the fold.

3.      Slip the knot into a ring to secure the strands.

4.      Arrange the cording strands from left to right: green, natural, green, natural, natural, green, natural, green.

5.       Tie alternating square knots for 12 inches.

6.      Finish off the collar with an overhand knot.

7.       Trim the ends to 1 inch and slip the collar off the ring.

To clasp the collar:

Slip the end knot through the beginning loop.

Note that beads are not advised for pet projects as they could become a chocking hazard.

Happy knotting!

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Macrame Necklace

This wonderful macrame necklace comes to us from PS I Made This DIY Designer Maven Erika Domesek. Erica was inspired to create this gorgeous, summery macrame necklace piece by Chanel’s SS10 Collection, which is filled with delicate, lacy macrame accents. What’s great about this necklace is that pretty much anyone can create it. It doesn’t take much time to put it together, and the results are stunning. As you know, macrame is showing up everywhere in fashion lately, and this wonderful DIY necklace is going to be your perfect accessory for summer. If you are a beginner and just starting out in learning how to macrame, I think this is an excellent project you can make in about an hour. And it has a very designer look to it when done right. I think this would look gorgeous in black as well. Give it a try!

Gorgeous Macrame Necklace anyone can do!

Supplies You’ll Need to Make this Macrame Necklace:

• String or lightweight rope (choose something that isn’t too flimsy as you’ll want the loosely tied knots to hold their shape a bit).
• Chain with some substance to it
• Couple of wood beads
• Scissors

1.      Start by holding your palm towards you and make a loop around your thumb.

2.      Then weave the rope through your fingers over and under in a loose pattern as shown, going back and forth until you’ve created two rows on each finger.

3.      Now remove the bottom string over the top of each finger, until you have just one row left.

4.      Continue weaving over and under, always creating 2 rows of rope and pulling the bottom rope over the top.

5.      After you are satisfied with your woven design, carefully remove from fingers, loop the strand through all finger holes.

6.      Add beads and chain.

TIP: This make take a few tries to get the weave you want, but it’s well worth the effort. Try wiggling your fingers a bit when tightening the weave, which helps the necklace take its loosely weaved shape.

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Plant Hanger by Charlie Emery This plant hanger is another wonderful pattern from Charlie Emery. He calls this pattern “Summer Breeze. FINISHED LENGTH: 38 1/2in. Materials Needed: -2 inch metal ring -77yds. 6mm. Polypropylene Cord -13yds. Yarn in a second color -27 wooden beads -10″ pot 1.Wrap the 2in metal ring with 1yd. Of yarn color 2, glue ends and let dry. 2.Cut 12 cords 6yds long each. Center the 12 cords over the ring and tie a square knot loop, with two 1 1/2yd peace’s of cord for 5 1/2in. Fold the loop over ring and tie a wrap knot with 1yd of cord for 2in. Covering the ends of the square knot loop. 3.Dived the 24 cords into three groups of eight cords each. 4.Take one group of cords and dived into two groups of four cords each.

5.Tie a set of alternating square knots; start with two square knots right under the wrap. Tie the pattern for six knots ending on a single square knot with the four middle cords. 6.Take the third cord in from the outside and tie a half hitch onto the second cord from the outside, now tie another half hitch with the outside cord onto the same cord with the first half hitch. Tie a square knot right below the half hitches. (Repeat for the other side). 7.Tie a square knot with the four center cords, now take two of your beads one on each outside cord. (Should be parallel to the square knot). Tie two more square knots with the two groups of cords. 8.Place one of the beads on the two center cords. Now tie two more square knots with the two groups of cords. (This will give us two groups of four cords to work with). 9.Take one of the groups of four cords and tie a square knot sinnet for 10 knots. Place three of the beads on the two filler cords. Now tie three more square knots. 10.Repeat steps 4-9 for the other two groups of cords, giving you three legs for the hanger.

11.Mark out three evenly spaced marks on the top lip of the pot. (These will be your starting points on the pot). Mark every 1/2in for the first leg, move over 1 1/2in and mark four more spaced 1/2in apart. Repeat for the other legs of the hanger. 12.Drill 1/4in holes in the lip of the pot where you have marked, (Best as a two step operation first drill a 1/16in. hole, followed by the 1/4in hole). 13.Drop down 6in and mark each cord. Feed the cords through the holes. Tie each cord with an overhand knot at the 6in mark. 14.Take each group of four cords and tie a square knot up close to the overhand knots. Take the two nearest cords from each leg. You should have two free cords, one knotting cord, two filler cords, one knotting cord and two free cords in each group. 15.Tie a square knot with the four center cords, about 3in down from the last square knots. 16.Use the outside cord as the anchor cord. Take the second cord in and double half hitch it onto the anchor cord about 3/4in down from the top square knot.

17.Take the bottom knotting cord from the center square knot and double half hitch it onto the anchor cord 1 1/2in down. 18.Now use the filler cord from the square knot and double half hitch it onto the anchor cord 3/4in down. 19.Repeat for other side of “V” gather all four cords together and tie a wrapping knot for 1in. (Use the yarn color 2) 20.Take the top cord from the double half hitch on each side and the next one down. Using these cords tie a square knot in the middle of the “V” about 1in lower then the bottom of the “V”. 21.Gather all four cords and tie a wrapping knot for 1in. (Use the yarn color 2) 22.Repeat steps 14-21 for the other two groups of cords. 23.Trim cords ends to 2 1/2in and frizz out.  Double half hitch knot and square knot detail

Macrame Patterns: Plant Hanger for a Summer Breeze is a post from the Macrame Lovers blog where you can get macrame patterns and news.

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This is the final post in our month long series titled How to Macrame.

There are certain times when you’ll want to add cords to your Macrame project:

• When you want to expand or increase a certain section of the pattern.
• When one or more cords become too short for knotting.
• When you want to add a color.

Adding cords will depend on whether you want the addition of the cording to show as well as what type of cording you’re using.  If you want the addition of the cording to be invisible you’ll want to splice the cord into the Macrame pattern.  This is done by unraveling both ends of the cording that are going to be joined.  You can dip them in fabric cement so that they stay pinched together.  Then twist the ends together, allowing the joint of cording to dry thoroughly before you continue with your knotting.

Another invisible method for adding a short cord, or adding a cord of a new color, is to place a T-pin behind the Macrame work where the new cord is to be added.  Tie the new cord to the pin as though it was a horizontal line and simply work it into the knotting.  The ends can be glued or woven in by hand or needle later.

If the fringe ends of the Macrame cording are going to be part of the texture of the final product and entirely visible, then you can permit the added loose ends of the new cording to hang and then knot them where needed.

Ok, now that you know how to macrame, it’s time to get back to your latest macrame project…

How to Macrame: Adding More Cord to a Finished Project is a post from the Macrame Lovers blog where you can get macrame patterns and news.

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From our monthly series: How to Macrame

Ending your Macrame project will require some foresight since you can’t just end the project and risk it unraveling.  Once you know how long the ends should be you can measure them off.  There are several different methods for ending the cording and each Macrame project will have its own instructions.

One way that you can end a series of loose cords is by “wrapping.”  Wrapping is done by using one of the existing cords and wrapping around the others.

Other techniques for ending cords include:

• Using a series of Overhand Knots, with one knot at the bottom.
• A row of beads held in place with an Overhand Knot.
• Using an alternating Half Hitch knot.
• Fringing and fraying the end cords by unraveling their plies.

Another technique for ending the project is by braiding three or more cords and then holding them in place with an Overhand Knot.  Twist two or more sets of cords in a clockwise direction and then twist the groups together in counterclockwise direction. Tie an Overhand Knot to hold the twists together.  For a more gnarled effect you can twist the cording in the same direction as the original twist until it bends up in odd shapes.

Example of a monkey's fist knot

You can also use a series of Monkey’s Fist Knots.  For a solid end without any dangling cords you can use a Clove Hitch over a horizontal bar, then bring the ends up to the back of the work and weave them into the knots.  You can then glue or stitch the ends so that they hold better.

In most cases each Macrame project will have instructions included on recommended ways to tie off and end your work.

How to Macrame: Ending Your Project is a post from the Macrame Lovers blog where you can get macrame patterns and news.

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Our month long series on How to Macrame is coming towards its end, but I wanted to feature one of my favorite knots today, called the Josephine knot.

How to Macrame: Josephine Knot

The Josephine Knot is an elegant knot that looks best in long, lacy designs with many strands.  This knot is very distinctive and unique looking.

1. Make a loop with the left strands.

2. Place the right strands over this loop and then slide the right strands behind the left loose strand ends.

3. Slide the strand ends over the top left strands and weave the strand diagonally across the loop.

4. Tighten the knot evenly.

This knot looks very beautiful when done with multiple cords as well.

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Now that you know how to do a Larks Head Knot from an earlier post in our month long series titled How to Macrame, it’s time for you to build upon that knowledge.This is called a Larks Head Sinnet. This knot is created with three cords, or strands. Start with your anchor cord, and then create alternating larks head knots with the two outer cords.

How to Macrame: Alternating Larks Head Chain

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Now that we are getting towards the end of our series How to Macrame, we are featuring knots that are more complicated to do. You should already be knowledgeable in creating the square knot, the half knot, larks head, half hitch knots and so forth. Now it’s time to start adding those together and having fun with it.

The Alternating Square Knot uses eight strands of cording.  The effect of this knotting pattern is a soft and lacy look.  To preserve the lacy look make sure that you don’t pull the knots too tight as you’re working them.  Secure the strands and separate them so that they lie side by side.

How to Macrame: Alternating Square Knots

How to Macrame: Alternating Square Knots

1. Divide the strands into two groups of four.  In each group tie a Square Knot with the two outer strands over the two center strands.

2. Bring the two left strands of the right group and the two right strands of the left group to the center, dropping the two outer strands on each side.

3. Tie a Square Knot with the two outer strands over the two center strands.

4. This completes one unit of the knot.

5. Repeat from step 1 until you reach the desired length.

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Today’s feature in our month long series titled How to Macrame is the Larks Head Chain. The  Lark’s Head Chain is a more decorative version of the Lark’s Head Knot.  This knot allows you more freedom to use loops for decoration.

How to Macrame: Larks Head Chain

1. Starting on either the left or the right side make a Lark’s Head Knot using the outer strand of cording around the anchor strands.

2. Drop the strand and pick up the opposite outer strand to make another knot.

3. Continue the pattern on alternating sides until you reach the desired length.

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"Spirals" micro-macrame bracelet pattern by "Knot Gypsy"

“Knot Gypsy” is the pen name of macrame artist Donna Littlewood of Seguin, Texas. Donna specializes in micro-macrame jewelry, and she sells her designs through Etsy and her own website. She also creates and sells jewelry kits for someone looking to give micro-macrame a try. In addition to kits, she also sells her own custom created patterns so you can create your own gorgeous bracelets, earrings and necklaces at home! One of the things particularly helpful about her work is that she aims to help others learn the craft, and she shows you different ways you can adapt a pattern to create something unique.

Donna’s pattern for the Spirals Bracelet was featured in the “Step by Step Beads” magazine a couple of years ago. She generously offers this free micro-macrame pattern for the Spirals Bracelet on her site, so go check it out. Her patterns are also very reasonably priced, and include support plus super easy to follow instructions and step by step photos. If you have been thinking about getting into micro-macrame, you should definitely give it a try. Once you check out the Spirals pattern, you can order a kit or several patterns and see how you like micro-macrame. You can find more info about Knot Gypsy at her site: Knot Gypsy Designs Give it a try!

P.S. I forgot to mention that another one of Knot Gypsy’s patterns is featured in the all new Macrame Guide: One Stop Macrame Shop. Thanks Knot Gypsy!

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Kind of a mouthful! Today’s featured knot from our month long series, How to Macrame is the Horizontal Double Half Hitch. You’ll want to refer back to original post on the Half Hitch in case you need a refresher. This knot is just a new version of that.

How to Macrame: Horizontal Half Hitch

The Horizontal Double Half Hitch is knotted from either left to right, or right to left.  The cord is knotted over a horizontal anchor cord.

Simple, right? Well that, and practice makes perfect.

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Today’s KNot in our month long How to Macrame series is the Alternating Half Hitch.

The Alternating Half Hitch knot is a variation of the Half Hitch.  It produces a flat sinnet instead of a spiral.

How to Macrame: Alternating Half Hitch

1. Half Hitch the left strand around the center strand.

2. Half Hitch the right strand around the center strand.

3. Repeat until you reach the desired length of spiral.

4. Flatten the knots with your fingers as you work.

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From our month long series titled “How to Macrame” I bring you the “Half Hitch” knot. Another very simple one to do.

How to Macrame: Half Hitch Knot

The Half Hitch Knot is a single wrap of one strand around another strand.  Bring the end of the cord between the working and the anchor strands. You’ll need the anchor strand to be actually held down or anchored while you tie this knot.

If you are interested in learning more knots plus all the basics to macrame, you can find more comprehensive knot instructions in my macrame ebook listed below:

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Our month long series titled How to Macrame talks about something critical when it comes to making macrame, and that is figuring out how much cord you’ll need for a certain project. Now that you have learned some basic macrame knots, you might be ready to give a pattern a try. Before you start a project, you’ll need to consider how much cording to use.

You’ll need to calculate how long the length of your cording should be before you start on a particular project.  Although most projects will give you the recommended measurements, you should have some idea of how this measurement is reached. Here is a basic formula to help you figure that out:

The ends of cording should be 3 ½ to 4 times longer than the piece you plan to make, however, since the cording is doubled in half for knotting it is measured 7 to 8 times longer than the amount needed.  For example: if the Macrame project will have a finished length of 1 yard you’ll want to measure your cording 7 to 8 yards from one end to the other.  Then, when each end is doubled for knotting, it will be two ends with each end being 3 ½ to 4 yards long.

Make sure that you measure the ends generously since you don’t want to run out of cording and have to add to the project.  It’s much better to have extra cording than it is to run out and add in an inconvenient place in the design.

Happy knotting!

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From our month long series titled How to Macrame. Here we have the half knot.

How to Macrame: Half Knot

The Half Knot can be knotted either from right to left, or left to right.

1. Start with four cords.

2. Bring the left cord over and to the right of the two anchor cords.

3. Place the right cord over the left cord.

4. Bring the right cord under the anchors and through the loop formed by the left cord.

5. Pull tightly and the Half Knot is complete.

You can tie this knot over and over again and it will create a spiral that makes a nice base for a bracelet.

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From our month long series titled How to Macrame:

I know this tip might seem like common sense, but believe me, I’ve come across many crafters who don’t realize this important step in creating uniform knots. Those knots need to be tightened!

You’ll need to tighten the beginning and end knots of your project so that the ends are firmly secured.  An easy way to do this is by using pliers.  Hold each strand of cording, one at a time, with the tip of the pliers.  Firmly pull the pliers away from the cording to tighten the strands.  This will strengthen your macrame project so that it stays secure and safe. Ok crafters, carry on!

Macrame Posts You Might Enjoy:

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Today’s featured knot in our month long series titled How to Macrame is called the Half Hitch Spiral. The Half Hitch Spiral is a sinnet that gives a corkscrew effect. It’s very simple to do, and you can always refer back to the posts on the various half hitch knot in order to refresh your knowledge on this particular macrame knot.

How to Macrame: Half Hitch Spiral

1. Use one strand to tie a series of Half Hitches around the other strand.

2. Repeat until you reach the desired length of spiral.

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This is the fourth post in a series titled  How to Macrame. Each post features a particular macrame knot and the step by step instructions. The Overhand Knot is one of the simplest and most versatile of knots used in Macrame patterns.  It is most often used to begin or end a Macrame project.

How to Macrame: Overhand Knot

1. Make a loop with the cording.

2. Bring one end of the cording around the cord through the loop and pull tightly.

Pretty easy, right? If you are ready to give it a go, check out these wonderful macrame patterns for beginners.

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Today I want to share with you some of the key basics of How to Macrame so
that you produce the outcome you desire in terms of the pattern you are trying to follow.  That what you had in your
“minds eye”, or saw in the pattern book actually turns out that way. The keys: uniform knots and measuring the right amount of cord to use.

Calculating how much cording to use:

You’ll need to calculate how long the length of your cording should
be.  Although most projects will give you the recommended
measurements,you should have some idea of how this measurement is
reached.

The ends of cording should be 3 ½ to 4 times longer than the piece
you plan to make, however, since the cording is doubled in half for
knotting it is measured 7 to 8 times longer than the amount needed.

For example:  if the Macrame project will have a finished length of
1 yard you’ll want to measure your cording 7 to 8 yards from one
end to the other.

Then when each end is doubled for knotting it will be two ends,
each end being 3 ½ to 4 yards long.

Make sure that you measure the ends generously since you don’t want
to run out of cording and have to add to the project.  It’s much
better to have extra cording than it is to run out and add in an
inconvenient place in the design.

Now did you know this already?  I must admit I have been a bit hit
and miss in the past with the length I cut my cord – sometimes I
lucked out, other times .

I thought this was a great, easy to implement guide to working out
how long to cut the yarn. If you have other great macrame tips to share, please do!

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This post is the third installment of a series called How to Macrame. The Lark’s Head Knot is often used for attaching cords to a  holding or starting line. This is a very easy macrame knot to learn.

How to Macrame: Lark's Head Knot Instructions

1. Fold the cord in half and place the loop under the horizontal holding line from top to bottom.

2. Reach under the loop and over the horizontal line and grasp the two loose strands, bringing them down through the loop.

3. Pull and tighten the knot.

This is the second knot featured in a series. the first knot to learn when you are just learning how to macrame is the square knot.

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In our first post on the How to Macrame series we discussed the basics of macrame you need to know before you start. Once you understand the basics of what you are trying to do, its time to learn the knots. The Square knot is the first macrame knot you’ll want to learn. It’s one of the most popular knots you’ll need to master. Here we go:

A Square Knot consists of two half knots that are tied in opposite directions.

How to macrame: square knot

1. Start with four cords.

2. Bring the right cord over and to the left of the two anchor cords.

3. Place the left cord over the right cord.

4. Bring the left cord under the anchors and through the loop formed by the right cord.

5. Pull and you have the first half of the Square Knot.

6. Bring the left cord over and to the right of the two anchor cords and place the right cord over it.

7. Bring the right cord under the anchors and through the loop formed by the left cord.

8. Pull the cords and you have the finished Square Knot.

Now you are ready to macrame. Start with these macrame patterns which are good for beginners.

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This post is from the How to Macrame series for beginners. I’ve been getting questions from readers who wanted a list of the basic tools you’ll need to get started with macrame. Here you go…

The basic equipment and tools that you need to get started with macrame are few and simple:

• Mounting cords
• Rings to hold the mounting cords
• Macrame board or project board
• Pins, such as T-pins
• Scissors
• A measuring tape
• Beads(optional depends on type of project)
• Cording
• Embroidery needle
• Crochet hook

The Macrame board is the working surface that you use to hold your work securely.  You can purchase a Macrame board from a craft store.  If stores where you live don’t stock Macrame boards you can order one from this list of macrame suppliers from a previous post.

You’ll find T-pins (also known as “wig” pins) at a sewing and notions store.  You might also want to buy U-pins, which are great for holding heavy cords to the Macrame board.  You can purchase U-pins at stores that carry supplies for upholstery projects.

You’ll use the embroidery needle and crochet hook for those projects where you need to finish off a Macrame pattern with some fine detailing.  Instructions for this type of finishing will be included in each individual Macrame project. If you are a beginner, you’ll also want to check out this post: How to Macrame which is helpful for beginners.

How to Macrame: Tools You’ll Need to Get Started is a post from the Macrame Lovers blog where you can get macrame patterns and news.

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How to macrame is what this blog is all about. If you are a beginner with macrame, this step by step macrame instruction will get you going. First, some basics for the beginner. Macrame is about tying knots. there are many different knots you can use in macrame, but there are a certain few that you will use most often such as the square knot. Learning these basic macrame knots is all you really need to get started.

Macrame is a craft by which many items may be created using simple knots. This goes far beyond the original concept which included projects such as plant hangers and owls.  These days, macrame is being used to create purses, dresses, shorts, wall hangings, bracelets, earrings, hammocks, chairs and all sorts of wonderful things. The only limit is of course, your imagination.  We will begin with an explanation of the supplies we will use and where they can be purchased.

There are several types of cord used in macrame. Natural cords include jute and hemp. There is a natural beauty to these cords, and they are perfect for beginners. My preference is to use only synthetic cord, which are made of herculon fiber. These cords are washable, and can also be brushed and heat fused. They are also fade proof. This is an important consideration for outdoor plant hangers or wall hangings that receive a lot of light.

Cords are available in varying thickness ranging from .5 to 8mm basically, the larger the number the thicker the cord so 8mm is the thickest. You will also be using metal rings and beads once you learn the basic knots. The easiest way to work a project is on a flat macrame board. The project is held in place using t-pins, which help with the spacing of knots in the patterns. If you don’t have a macrame board yet, a clip board will do just fine.

Acajou Crafts is one of my favorite places for macrame supplies. They carry a good selection of rings, project boards, cord, beads and also project kits, which are perfect for beginners. They carry synthetic cord in 2mm, 4mm, and 6mm which are common thicknesses for many projects. With free shipping on many items, you can’t go wrong!

First, let’s start with some basic supplies:

• macrame cord (hemp or  jute is great for beginners, twine will work too)
• a ring or dowel (this is what you will anchor the cords to while you tie knots. Even a wooden spoon will work just fine to start with)
• scissors to cut the cord
• Mounting board or clip board, to secure the cords while you are knotting

Basic Macrame Terms to Start:

• Knotting Cords-these are the cords on the outside that you are knotting with, while the filler cords are the middle cords.
• Filler Cords-these are the cords in the middle, or inside that stay put.

For the rest of the month, we will feature one post a day dedicated to macrame instructions. You will learn all the basic macrame knots, important macrame instructions and tips and tricks. This series is aimed at anyone who has been looking to learn how to macrame. Follow these daily step by step macrame instructions and you’ll be making macrame in no time at all!

How to Macrame is a post from the Macrame Lovers blog where you can get macrame patterns and news.

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Plant Hanger by Kristen T.

This lovely plant hanger features 2 levels and consists mostly of square knots and half knots. Might be considered slightly beyond a beginner, but if you can do the basic macrame plant hangers, then you should be able to handle this one!

Materials Needed:

-4 yds. of 3-ply natural jute
-Four ^3/4in. wooden beads
-Eight ^1/2in. wooden beads
-Four 3in wood rings
-Four 1 ^1/4in wood rings

1. Cut 16, 4 yards, long cords of 4 ply or #72 natural jute. Take eight cords and fold in half, tie a scrap piece of cord around the middle to hold in place.
2. Cut a 1^yd. long peace of 4 ply or #72 natural jute and tie a wrapping knot for two in. Trim the ends and seal.
3. Divide cords into four groups of four cords each.
4. Tie a half-knot sinnet for 6 ^1/2in. (about 22 knots)
5. Take one of the ^1/2in. wooden beads and thread it onto the two filler cords, followed by on of the ^3/4in. wooden beads, with a second ^1/2in. wooden bead under it. Giving you three beads two ^1/2in. and one ^3/4in.
6. Tie a half-knot cross over; (make the knotting cords the filler cords and the filler cords the knotting cords).
7. Tie another half-knot sinnet for 4 ^1/2in. (about 14 knots)
8. Take one of the 1 ^1/4in wood rings and put the two filler cords through it. Tie a square knot under it to hold in place.
9. Repeat steps 4-8 for the other three groups of cords.
10. Drop down 3in. and tie a row of alternating square knots to make the basket.
11. Tie two more rows of alternating square knots up close to close the basket.
12. Cut a 1^yd. long peace of 3-ply natural jute, and tie a wrapping knot for 1 ^1/2in. up close to the last row of alternating square knots.

Cut cords ends to 1 ^1/2in. and frizz.

(START BOTTOM HANGER)

1. Take two 4^yd. long cords of 4 ply or #72 natural jute and fold in half, place on one of 1 ^1/4in wood rings.
2. Use a 1^yd. Long peace of 3-ply natural jute. And tie a wrapping knot for one in. Trim the ends and seal.
3. Tie a half-knot sinnet for 6in. about 21 knots three complete turns.
4. Take one of the 3in wood rings. Drop down 1 ^1/2in. and double half hitch the four cords onto the top of the ring.
5. Tie a square knot in the center of the ring. At the bottom of the ring double half hitch, the four cords onto the bottom.
6. Drop down 1 ^1/2in and do a cross over, use the two center cords as tying cords and the two outside cords as filler cords. Tie a half-knot sinnet for 1 complete turn 2in. about 6 knots.
7. Repeat steps 14-19 for the other three legs of the hanger.
8. Begin to tie the basket, take one filer and one knotting cord from opposite groups and tie a row of alternating square knots 3 ^1/2 in. below the last knot.
9. Drop down 3 ^1/2 in. and tie another row of alternating square knots with a second row of square knots right below, giving you two square knots in this row.
10. Drop down 1in. and tie another row of alternating square knots, with a second row right up close to the last row to close the basket.
11. Gather all the cords into a group and tie a wrapping knot for 1 ^1/2in. using 1yd. Of 4 ply or #72 natural jute. Trim the ends and seal ends.
12. Trim cord ends to 1 ^1/2in. and frizz.

Thanks to Charlie Emery for providing this pattern.

If you are looking for more Macrame Patterns for your plant hangers:

Macrame Patterns: Basic Plant Hanger

Macrame Patterns: Plant Hanger 1

Macrame Patterns: Plant Hanger 2

Macrame Patterns: Plant Hanger 3

Macrame Patterns: Plant Hanger with 2 Tiers is a post from the Macrame Lovers blog where you can get macrame patterns and news.

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Designing for Macramé is very much a matter of personal taste.
Some people find long strands and many tassels more attractive than
tightly knotted, intricate, and repeating patterns.  When you’re
designing your own Macramé projects there are only two basic
criteria that you need to pay attention to: (1) that the materials
and the design are compatible, and (2) that the work is uniform and
even in knotting.

Macrame is an artistic art that is unlimited in its combination of
materials, patterns, and beads.  The only limit is your own
imagination!  The designs that you create will be a reflection on
your originality and creativity.  You may enjoy creating Macramé
projects that have a unique texture using only a few knots.  Or you
may want to combine a variety of intricate knots with beads to
create a project that is beautiful and interesting.

When you’re designing your own Macrame projects you’ll need to make
sure that you take the time to lay your pattern down on paper
before you begin.  You’ll need to work out your knotting design
quite accurately and in considerable detail.  It’s important to
work the pattern on paper if you want to know how units of certain
cords can be used with units of other cords.  Buy graph paper to
help you plan your Macrame project accurately and to scale.

You can easily modify projects by making them longer or shorter, by
changing the types of knots that are used, and by adding beading to
the finished piece.  Beads are easy to add to any Macrame project
once you know how!  All you need to do is find the appropriate
places in the pattern to add the beads, choose the beads that you
want to complement the pattern, and make sure that the beads are
securely integrated into the project.

Happy knotting!

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In the Square Knot Sinnet only the outer strands of cording are worked.  There can be none, one, two, or more anchor strands.

1.      Make a Half Knot, with the left strand passing in front of the anchor strands.

2.    Bring the right strand behind the anchor strands so that the anchor strands are enclosed in a loop.

3.    Make another half knot with the right strand passing in front.

4.    Pull tightly.

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Macrame Guide Online

I am thrilled about the response we’ve been getting to let you know about the release of our brand new totally revamped online guide called “One Stop Macrame Shop“. If you have been thinking about purchasing the newly revised and updated macrame book download, here’s a bit of a sneak peek of what you’ll find inside the macrame ebook.

• Tons of gorgeous photos from established macrame artists to inspire you
• Knot illustrations custom created just for Macrame Lovers
• Tons of patterns for plant hanger, jewelry, hammock, and many great items
• History of macrame
• Where to get the best supplies

You are going to love the brand new macrame guide. I have been working on it for months, completely revamping it. I’ve gotten so much feedback over the years from customers and blog readers, so I’ve incorporated all those questions into the brand new Macrame ebook. If you are interested to check it out…Macrame Guide: One Stop Macrame Shop.

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Macrame Plant Hanger "Transitions" by Charlie Emery

Here is another great macrame pattern for a plant hanger by Charlie Emery. If you are looking for more macrame patterns, you will find plenty. Sorry the image is small, but feel free to send in your photos and we will gladly post them!

Materials Needed:
81yds. Of 4 ply or #72 natural jute.
3yd. Of 3-ply natural jute.
6 3/4in. wooden beads
6 1/2in. wooden beads
1 3in brass rings

1. Cut 6 cords 7yds. Long each of 4 ply or #72 natural jute. Fold in half and tie a scrape peace of cord to hold in place.
2. Cut a 1yd. peace of 4 ply or #72 natural jute to use as a wrapping cord. Tie a wrapping knot 3in. below the center of all cords for 3in.
3. Dived cords into four groups of three cords each. Number groups 1-4. Tie a Chinese Crown Knot for 3 knots.
4. Take the 3in brass ring and wrap it with the 3-ply Jute.
5. Put all 4 groups of cords through the wrapped ring. Now drop down 3 1/2in. taking the center cord from each group and Double Half Hitch it onto the ring 90° apart. Take the other two cords from each group and Double Half Hitch each cord onto the ring at an equal distance apart. You should have 12 cords tied onto the ring.
6. Divide cords into three groups of four cords each. Taking one group of cords, begin by dropping down 3 1/2in. and begin tying a square knot sinnet for 3 1/2 in. (about 5 knots).
7. Add one of the 3/4in. beads on the two filler cords, tie two square knots under it.
8. Drop down 1in. and tie a square knot picot; push it up tight to the last square knot. Giving you a 1/2in. loop on each side.
9. Drop down 3in and tie another square knot picot, push it up tight to the last square knot. Giving you a 1 1/2in. loop on each side.
10. Repeat step #8. You now have three picots two 1in. (top and bottom) and one 3in. in the middle.
11. Tie two more square knots followed by a half-knot sinnet for 6 knots (one complete turn).
12. Drop down 2in. and tie a square knot cross over knot (make the knotting cords the filler cords and the filler cords the knotting cords). Tie three square knots under it, making it 3 1/2in. long.
13. Drop down 1in. and tie a square knot; push it up close to the last knot. Giving you a 1/2in. loop.
14. Place one 1/2in. wooden bead on each knotting cord, and tie a square knot under it.
15. Repeat step#13. Tie two more square knots under it, giving you three total.
16. Drop down 3in. and tie three square knots.
17. Tie a half-knot sinnet for 6 knots (one complete turn). Followed by two square knots.
18. Repeat steps 6-17.
19. Drop down 6in and tie a row of alternating square knots, to connect the sinnets and begin the basket.
20. Drop down 2in and tie another row of alternating square knots.
21. Tie two more rows of alternating square knots up close to the last row to close the basket.
22. Cut a 1yd long peace of 3-ply natural jute to use as a wrapping cord. Begin the wrap right below the last row of square knots. Wrap for 2in tuck ends up under and glue.
23. Trim cords ends to 3 1/2in. and frieze out to make a bushy end.

Macrame Patterns: Plant Hangers “Transitions” is a post from the Macrame Lovers blog where you can get macrame patterns and news.

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This is another oldie but goodie from “Judys Way with Macrame.” This wonderful little gem of a pattern book has been out of print for a long time, but what a gem if you can find it!

Macrame Pattern: Towel Holders

Finished Length:
Approximately 20″
SUPPLIES:
7 yards 6-7mm cord that
will unravel and fluff
One decorative ring — 2 ”
One decorative ring — 5″
One decorative ring — 7″

NOTE: This pattern is worked from bottom to top.

PREPARATION:

CUT: 3 cords 2 yards long
1 yard cord to wrap

DIRECTIONS:

1. Fold the 2 yard cords in half and Lark’s Head
onto 7″ ring. Tie a Square Knot (SK) with the 3
cords on the left and the 3 cords on the right
directly under the Lark’s Head.
2. Tie a SK with the 4 center cords. Continue the
Alternating SK pattern until you have tied 7 more
rows, ending with 2 SK.
3. Place the 5″ ring under the 2 center filler cords,
with the ring away from you, and tie a SK with the
4 center cords. Continue the Alternating SK pattern
until you have tied 11 more rows.
4. Place all cords thru the 2″ ring with ends coming
to the front. Tie with wrap cord. Trim ends to 21/2″
and fringe.

More macrame patterns can be found here.

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The Half Knot can be knotted either from right to left, or left to right.

This is a half knot for macrame

1.      Start with four cords.

2.    Bring the left cord over and to the right of the two anchor cords.

3.    Place the right cord over the left cord.

4.    Bring the right cord under the anchors and through the loop formed by the left cord.

5.     Pull tightly and the Half Knot is complete.

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Annika de Groot is an incredible artist of many talents, one of which is the intricate art of micro macramé. We are lucky to have people like Annika who are willing to share their talents with the world. Annika is considered an authority on the topic of micro macramé, and wrote the definitive guide:

Micro-Macrame: 30 Beaded Designs for Jewelery Using Crystals and Cords

From Annika’s bio:

“For me, micro-macramé is a synthesis of textiles and jewelry. It is an elegant, flowing art form sinuously shifting from knot to knot, creating waves of thread and stone. I use semi-precious stones, glass beads, Austrian and Czech crystals and found objects in many of my designs because I am continually mesmerized by the look of these materials.”

“My inspiration comes from children’s books, second-hand stores, textiles, overheard conversations and imaginative what-ifs. My jewelry designs are meditations in color and texture. I often fall into an altered state as I work my way through a knotted piece.”

“Some of my macramé pieces reflect the intricate meanderings that encompass my everyday life. Other pieces, like my openwork macramé bracelets and chokers, are floaty little snippets of shimmery stained glass made to frame a wrist or neck.But I have to admit, making knotted jewelry isn’t my only passion – I’ve had a long love affair with textile manipulation and other art forms, from marbling to mediaeval illumination to watercolor to glassblowing”

Annika offers a free pdf tutorial  on the micro-macrame Aspen Choker (pictured above) at her website Annika de Groot this is an advanced project folks! Here is a link to her free macrame pdf:

Annika’s Free Tutorial on the Micro-Macrame Aspen Choker

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The newly revised guide to macrame available online: "One Stop Macrame Shop"

I am very excited to let you know about the release of our brand new totally revamped online guide called “One Stop Macrame Shop”. If you have been thinking about purchasing the newly revised and updated macrame book download, here’s a bit of a sneak peek of what you’ll find inside the macrame ebook.

Macrame Tips and Tricks

• To keep the ends from fraying, tie a knot at the end of the cord.

• You can use clear nail polish on the ends of the cords to keep them from fraying as well, and this also stiffens the ends, making it easier to string those tiny seed beads. You can also use a “no fray” liquid found in fabric stores to do the same job.
• Use rubber bands to wind up and secure long cords while you work. Unroll them as needed. This helps to keep the cords from getting tangled.

• To add an easy toggle clasp, just add a button or large flat shaped bead on one end and then use an overhand knot on the other end of your project.

These are just a couple little tips for you to enjoy. I am always collecting great little tips, so if you have any to share with others, please send them my way. And if you are interested in checking out the guide: Macrame Lovers: One Stop Macrame Shop and let me know what you think!

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This is another quick and easy macrame pattern from “Judys Way With Macrame.”  This pattern is to create a paper towel holder and will add a touch of elegance and handmade love to any kitchen. Another use for this piece might be in the craft room, to hold a couple rolls of ribbon.

Paper Towel Holder:

Finished Length: 17″ including fringe

MACRAME SUPPLIES:
14 yards 4-5mm cord that will unravel
One 2 ” wood ring — painted or stained
3/8″ dowel rod 161/2″ long – painted or stained
Two 3/4 inch or 20mm beads

PREPARATION:

Cut 4 cords 31/2 yards long

DIRECTIONS:

1. Left side of ring— Lark’s Head 2 cords onto ring.
Then adjust so that center cords are 30″ long.
Right side of ring — repeat as for left side.
2. Tie 12″ of Half Knots (HK) with each group of
4 cords.
3. Tie a Square Knot (SK) button with 5 knots per
button, with each group of 4 cords.
4. Tie 1″ of HK under each button. Trim ends to
4″ and unravel cord ends.
5. Using the scraps which were cut off, put 4 cords
across the ring between the 2 sets of cords. Wrap,
using a scrap piece and trim to two inches and unravel.

to find more macrame patterns visit here.

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Birdcage Macrame Plant Hanger by Charlie Emery

Materials Needed:

-81yds. of 4 ply or #72 natural jute
-6yds Of 3-ply natural jute
-Seven  ^3/4 in. wooden beads
-Six ^1/2in. wooden beads
-Two 5in brass rings
The finished length of this plant hanger should be 4 feet, 10 inches.

1. Cut 6 cords 7yds. Long each of 4 ply or #72 natural jute. Fold in half and tie a scrap piece of cord to hold in place.
2. Cut a 1yd. peace of 4 ply or #72 natural jute to use as a wrapping cord. Tie a wrapping knot 3in. below the center of all cords for 3in.
3. Divide cords into four groups of three cords each. Number groups 1-4. Tie a Chinese Crown Knot for 4 knots.
4. Take one of the 5in brass rings and wrap it with the 3-ply Jute.
   Put all 4 groups of cords through the wrapped ring. Now drop down 3 ^1/2in. take the center cord from each group and Double Half Hitch it onto the ring 90° apart. Take the other two cords from each group and Double Half Hitch each cord onto the ring at an equal distance apart. You should have 12 cords tied onto the ring.
5. Take group 1 (3cords) and drop down 1 ^1/2in. and tie a square knot around one filler cord. Add 1, ^3/4in. wooden bead on the filler cord. Tie a square knot below the bead. Repeat for the other 3 groups of cords.
6. Repeat step #4. Put all 4 groups of cords through the wrapped ring. Now drop down 1 ^1/2in. Take the center cord from each group and Double Half Hitch it onto the ring 90° apart directly below the above ring knot. Take the other two cords from each group and Double Half Hitch each cord onto the ring at an equal distance apart. You should have 12 cords tied onto this ring.
7. Divide the cords into groups of 4 cords each. Take one group of cords and start the first leg of the hanger, by tying a square knot followed by a half-knot sinnet for 5in. (about 18 knots three complete turns).
8. Put one of the ^1/2in. wooden bead on the filler cords and push it up tight to the last half-hitch. Drop down 1in. and tie a square knot picot around the bead. Push this knot up tight to the bead, making a nice half-inch loop on both sides.
9. Put one of the ^3/4in. wooden beads on the filler cords and push up tight to the last knot. Drop down 3in. and tie a square knot picot around the bead. Push this knot up tight to the bead, you now have a 1 ^1/2in. loop.
10. Repeat step #9, giving you four half-inch loops two at the top and two at the bottom. And two 1 ^1/2in loop in the middle.
11. Drop down 3in and tie a square knot X-over. Use the filler cords as tying cords, and the tying cords as filler cords.
12. Now tie a square knot button with three square knots, push it up and tie a square knot under it to hold in place.
13. Continue to tie square knots for a total of 5 knots, followed by another square knot button of three square knots. Tie another square knot underneath to hold in place.
14. Drop down 4in. and tie a square knot, giving you an open loop.
    Now tie a Half-knot sinnet for 3in. (11 knots) two complete turns.
15. Repeat steps 8 -16 for the other two legs of the hanger.
16. Drop down 6in and tie a row of alternating square knots, to connect the sinnets and begin the basket.
17. Drop down 2in and tie another row of alternating square knots.
18. Tie two rows of alternating square knots up close to the last row to close the basket.
19. Cut a 1yd long peace of 3-ply natural jute to use as a wrapping cord. Begin the wrap right below the last row of square knots. Wrap for 2in tuck ends up under and glue.
20. Trim cords ends to 3 1/2in. and frieze out to make a bushy end.

Pattern & photo by Charlie Emery

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The Overhand Knot is one of the simplest and most versatile of knots used in Macrame.  It is most often used to begin or end a Macrame project.

The overhand knot is one of the simpliest knots to do

1.      Make a loop with the cording.

2.    Bring one end of the cording around the cord through the loop and pull tightly.

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Deep Sea Macrame Lampshade

I recently came across this absolutely stunning collection of macrame pieces created by Australian designer Sarah Parkes & her team at Smalltown, a group of artisans located in Melbourne. This local groups is dedicated to preserving the art of macrame, and their interpretations are truly works of art.  The collection includes macrame lampshades, plant hangers, wall hangings and macrame jewelry. Some of the commissioned works include event decor, store entrance design and custom ceiling hangings for a restaurant.The images of her work are just incredible, I love seeing how others interpret the art of macrame.

Macrame Knotted Egg Lamp

This stunning piece is called the Knotted Egg Lamp, and it’s got a very contemporary yet casual feel to it. The black rope casts interesting shadows onto the wall, which adds further interest.

White macrame plant hanger with a very fresh look to it.

I really like the way this plant hanger is displayed. Rather than starting with a knot and the cords coming down form the center of the knot, this plant hanger us suspended on a pole with a flat panel, which gives this gorgeous piece a very fresh look on an old favorite.

Here's a fresh twist on a traditional style plant hanger.

I’m not sure what it is about this plant hanger, perhaps its the black cord that is used? This piece is another winner. You can see more of Smalltown’s incredible work at their website Smalltown. Pieces are available in custom colors, and they also offer commisioned works for special projects.  Go check out their website to see more inspiring works of macrame art.

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Chinese Crown Knot from Macramelovers.com

The Chinese Crown Knot is a decorative knot that looks like a crown, a shamrock or a flower, depending on your perspective. This knot is used less frequently than the square knot, but it’s still a good one to know.

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Macrame Owl Pattern

Have you ever wanted to learn how to macrame an owl? I came across this great pattern online recently for a macrame owl. It details step-by-step instructions with knot illustrations, which are often hard to come by. Have fun with this one, and send in your photos & I will post them here on the Macrame Lovers Blog!

The types of macrame knots you need to know for this project:

• Lark’s Head
• Square Knot
• Half hitch
• Alternating Square Knot
• Square Knot Sinnet

Macrame Supplies:

• 10 yards of size 10 crochet cotton (owl-colored)
• Two beads for eyes. (Make from Fimo)
• Two round toothpicks or sticks
• Paintbrush and Branch-colored paint for toothpicks
• Tacky or other white glue
• Masking tape to hold project to work table.

Get the rest of the instructions here: Macrame Owl Pattern

Enjoy!

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Macrame is a “textile art” that uses a variety of types of cording.  The yarns and cording that you use for your Macrame projects should be strong enough to stand up to the abrasion of the knotting process and shouldn’t have a lot of elasticity or give to them.  You also want to use cording that will keep its identity so that the knots can easily be seen in the finished project.  The knotting pattern is an essential part of Macrame and you want each knotting section to be unique and easily seen.

Many times you’ll want to use cording that will be comfortable against your skin, such as when you’re making necklaces, bracelets, anklets, or other Macrame projects that you’re going to be wearing.  For other projects, such as hangers for plants, you’ll want to choose cording for its tension and strength.  Those Macrame projects that are going to be outside will need to be able to stand up to the weather so you’ll need to take that into account when choosing cording.  Most Macrame projects will advise you with the type of material that is best suited for the pattern so you won’t have to play the guessing game when it comes to cording.

Jute cord is great for beginners

Cords can be either natural or man-made.  Natural cords are made from plants such as:

• jute
• sisal
• manila
• flax
• hemp
• cotton
• raffia
• linen

Silk cord is often used for jewelry

Other natural cording includes silk and wool. Man-made cords are made from a variety of synthetic materials such as rayon, nylon, plastic, and polyethylene. What have you found to be your favorite type of cord for macrame projects? What have I left off the list? Please share!

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WHAT TO DO WITH ENDS

Figuring out how to end a knotted project can be a tough one when you are just learning how to macrame. The best way approach would be to look at images of other similar projects to see how they are finished off, and then choose a type of ending that works for your particular macrame pattern.
Wrapping  is one great way to end a series of loose cords.  It can be done with one of the cords already on
the piece, or another color or texture may be added to give it some final flair.
Other techniques include adding a row of beads held with an Overhand
Knot; a series of Overhand Knots, only a knot at the bottom; the
alternating Half Hitch, fringing and fraying
the cord by unraveling its plies.

Ends can be braided with three or more cords and held with an
Overhand Knot. Twist two or more sets of cords in a clockwise direction,
then twist the groups together in a counterclockwise direction.
Tie an Overhand Knot to hold the twists together. For a gnarled
effect twist the cord in the same direction as its original twist until it
bends up in odd shapes.
A series of Monkey’s Fist Knots may be used. For a solid
end without any dangling cords, Clove Hitch over a horizontal bar,
then bring the ends up to the back of the work and weave them into
the knots. Ends may be glued or stitched for better holding. The back
may be faced with a piece of fabric to hold the ends—particularly for
clothes, purses, and accessories that will be handled a great deal.
Tassels, long and short, are decorative and functional. They may be
made with the Macrame heading or bundled and wrapped.

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As you are working on various macrame patterns, you will come across terms such as filler cords, holding cords, fusing, project board, etc. Here is a list of some basic macrame terms you need to know when following patterns.

Row:
A line of knots side by side, each tied with a different working cord.

Alternating Cords:
Forming a new group of cords by taking half the cords from adjacent knots previous tied, and tying a new knot the lays below and between where the cords are from.

Exchanging Cords:
Changing the position of knotting and filler cords so that the last knotting cords becomes the filler cords and the last filler cords becomes the knotting cords.

Filler Cords:
The cords that are in the center of the knotting cords.

Fusing:
Done with Polypropylene Cord – The processes of joining two cords. Hold a butane lighter flame near the cords to melt the fibers together. Roll the ends between your fingers. (Wet your fingers to stop burning).

Holding Cord:
The Cord, Dowel, or ring onto which you anchor your project while you work on it.

Knotting Board:
Usually a fiber board with printed grid 1in. squares on both sides. Can also use a clipboard to hold your project in place, or even a firm pillow.

Wrapping Cord:
The cord used to gather and wrap a group of cords. You’ll see this at the top of a plant hanger.

Knotting Cords:
The right and left cords that are used to tie knots over filler cords.

Picot:
Loops formed by extending working cords a distance beyond the knot, and then pushing them up close to the knot above. Decorative.

Sinnet:
A vertical row of knots tied continuously, made of the same knot with the same working cords.

T-pins:
Metal pins with a T shaped top. Used to hold Macrame work to the Knotting Board. Place pins at an angle to add sturdiness.

Working Cords:
All cords in a design, those that do the tying (knotting cords), and the ones that are tied around (filler cords).

What terms are missing? If you spot something that should be on this list, please add in the comments. For more tips on how to macrame you will find many helpful posts throughout the blog. 

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Here’s a quick and easy little project to dress up your collection of flower pots out on the patio. Why not give them some extra bit of flair with these cute little macrame collars for the pots?

Supplies Needed:

1.      one 6 ½ inch Terra Cotta flower pot and pot saucer (for a larger size adjust the amount of cord)

2.    7 1/3 yards of 5-ply natural jute cording, #72 size

3.    4 round  beads, 12mm or 16mm size

4.    glue

Directions:

1.      Cut the filler cord for the project to 1 1/3 yards.

2.    Cut the knotting cord for the project to 6 yards.

3.    Pin the filler cord to your Macrame board about 12 inches from one end.

4.    Fold the knotting cord in half and slip the center of cord underneath the filler cord on the Macrame board.

5.     Tie a Square Knot next to the pin.  Use 2 knotting cords around the center of the filler cord.

6.    Tie a series of Square Knot Sinnets that will be able to fit snugly around the rim of the flower pot.  The length of the Sinnet will depend on the precise diameter of the pot.  Measure frequently to ensure a good fit.

7.     Glue the Sinnet into place along the rim of the pot and allow to dry.

8.    Tie the 2 filler cords together tightly.

9.    Tie these filler cords (now one cord) to the top knotting cord so that all 4 of the cords hang down from the Sinnet.

10.   Place a bead onto each of the cords at differing lengths.

11.  Tie an Overhand Knot under each bead to keep the bead in place.

12.   Place another bead onto each cord at differing lengths.

13.    Tie another Overhand Knot under each bead.

14.   Trim each knot and glue it to keep the ends fused.

If you enjoyed this pattern, you might also enjoy this macrame pattern for a sunflower necklace.

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A macrame hammock makes the perfect Spring project!

A Macrame hammock can be made from the simplest of ingredients: two poles for the ends, cord for the middle and two eyebolts or some extra rope with which to hang the finished work of art. This is a fantastic project for spring & you can enjoy it all summer. Why not get started on it now?

Macrame is the craft of tying a string or strings together again and again to produce a large or small, strong and often   decorative, fish net-type structure. The process is quite simple and easy and—for a hammock—you’ll need to use only the most basic knots.

Materials:

1.      Two 5ft long poles (2ft longer than you expect width of finished fishnet bed to be) : 2 ½ -3 inches in diameter, moderately straight, smooth and strong enough to hold weight that would sit in hammock.

You can use tree branches, or buy wooden or metal poles for the ends.

2.    Hemp cord or some other thin, strong, slip proof rope that will stay tied when knotted-you’ll want to consider the feel of the cord as well, as you want your hammock to feel good against your skin.

Quantity: 6 rolls/1310 yards of cord/rope for hammock – do not worry about exact measurements, as will have excess footage on the ends when done (you may choose to use this excess to braid into sturdy hanging ropes for the bed).

The pattern is quite simple, but it is a time intensive project.

Directions:

1.      Start your hammock by hanging one of the two poles or branches flat against a wall, a little above eye level and parallel to the floor. If you firmly secure two eyebolts in the wall and suspend the pole by two ropes tied to its ends and fastened to the bolts, your beginning hammock will resemble a trapeze at this point.

2.    If the finished sling bed will be hung permanently where you make it, right now is an excellent time to test the strength of pole, ropes and bolts. Try anything you can think of to make sure that the pole won’t break and the anchors won’t pull out of the wall.

3.    Now cut the cord for the body of the hammock into 40 lengths of 32 yards each. Fasten every string—at its midpoint—to the pole by doubling the strand and bringing the loop it makes underneath the branch and back to the front where the long ends of the cord can be pushed down through the loop. Tighten and snug the first doubled string . . . and then stop!

4.    At this point (with only one cord looped around the stick) you may already have an inkling of how incredibly easy it would be to hopelessly tangle 80 separate tails (each 32 yards long!) . . . so to take care of that problem before it has a chance to develop.

5.     Coil each long, ungainly tail into a neat and compact bobbin. Start by curling the first string around and around the thumb and little finger of one hand in a “Figure-8″ pattern until you only have a yard or so of twine left. Then tie up the bobbin—so it won’t fall apart—with the yard-long free end.

6.    Repeat the bobbin-making process with the second string from the first loop . . . then attach all the other cords to branch one-by-one and shorten them into double bobbin you go along.

7.     You should finish this first step in making your hammock with 40 double loops (80 separate strings and bobbins) evenly spaced across the middle three feet of your five-foot long pole (see Fig. 4). The foot or so of “empty” space on either end of the branch is your guarantee that none of the cords will slip off the staff. You’re ready to start knotting.

8.    The easiest and surest knot for your hammock is the same good old dependable square knot that you’ve been making all your life . . . except that every one you tie on this project is going to have two “extra” cords running through its middle. Don’t panic. It’s actually very simple.

9.    Let’s start with the first four strings (the first two double loops) on the left end of the pole. Separate the two outer cords from the two inner ones (to make it even easier, let’s call the far left string of the quartet “black”, the far right one “gray” and the two middle ones “white” . . . as shown in Fig. 5).

10.            Take the gray cord on the right and place it over the middle two white strings. Then run the black twine over the part of the gray cord that’s to the left of the two middle strings, under the middle white strings and out over the gray cord on the right side. Now, keeping the two center strings straight, pull the gray and black cords up into a firm knot. You’re half done.

11.  Finish the square knot by doing the opposite of your first step. Take the black twine (that’s now to the right of center) and run it under the two middle white strings, heading back home. Then thread the gray cord (still on the left) under the black twine, over the two white strings and under the black twine (going toward the wall) on the right. Pull both the gray and black cords up firmly as you hold the two white strings straight . . . and you’ve completed your first square knot. Now tie the same knot in each group of four cords all the way across the branch.

12.The second row of knots is tied exactly the same way, except that they’re staggered to fall between the knots on the first row. Nothing to it: just skip the initial two strings when you begin Row No. 2, and make your first knot with the next four cords after that. In each knot of the second row, the left-hand string will be the old middle-right cord, the two middle cords will be old gray and black strings and the right-hand cord will be a middle-left string from the row above. Forget the two “untied” cords on each end of Row 2 . . . let them hang and work them into the third row of knots.

13.By the way . . . if your branch or pole is slightly bent, every row of knots should have the same slight irregularity until you stretch the hammock straight at the bottom.

14.The rest of the hammock should be a whiz. Just remember to keep the knots firm and the rows straight with each other and far enough apart so the bed will have a little “give”.

15. When you have to begin stooping to work, run an extra piece of cord through the hammock and tie its ends and middle to the branch to bring your working area back up to a comfortable level.

16.Make the sling bed anywhere from 5 to 7 feet long (depending on how long you are). The hammock will stretch, so don’t go overboard on length . . . or you’ll find yourself kissing your toes while your rear bumps the ground!

17. If you find the last row of knots uneven as you finish off the bed, work the end of the hammock off square, knot by knot.

18.ATTACHING THE SECOND POLE WITH A DOUBLE HALF HITCH : When your hammock is as long as you want it, you’ll finish the bed by tying all 80 cords around the second branch (after testing it for strength the way you tested the first pole).

19.To make this job a third row of knots up from the bottom of the hammock and tie the cross-cord to the top branch at several points so that the last row of knots is hanging down flat at a handy working level.

20.          Now hang the bottom pole up parallel to the last row of knots so that you can macrame it to the hammock. Tie this pole to the top crosspiece with extra cord so that the second staff is parallel to the floor, balanced and close enough to the last row of knots so that those knots will almost reach the second pole when you tug on the cords.

1.      You’ll be using another knot, called the double half hitch, to fasten the macramed body of the hammock to its second pole (see Fig. 10). Begin this operation by laying the staff across all the cords as explained above. Then bring the first cord on the right up from underneath, around the pole and back down other right side of the main body of the cord. Next, draw the twine up from underneath and over the pole a second time. And on this pass carry it to the left of the main cord and thread it down through the loop you’ve just formed. Draw the main part of the cord tight and then snug down, the finished half hitch.

2.    Tie an identical half hitch in the next cord and continue working your way left until you’ve knotted every twine to the second staff and all the ends of string are hanging evenly from the pole.

3.    At this point it’s a good idea to stretch the hammock our firmly to check it for “square” and evenly distributed tautness. When you’re satisfied that the finished piece is as good as you can make it, you should anchor the cords of the bed to the second pole once and for all so that there’s absolutely no chance that they can work loose.

4.    This final anchoring is accomplished with the aid of the square knot. Grasp the first four cords on the left (sound familiar?) and tie two or three square knots, one right after the other. Then tie two or three square knots in the next, four cords and continue on, knotting four cords at a time, until you reach the end of the row of strings.

5.     Cut the cords off as long as you like. I clipped mine to a length of about two feet, divided the strings into five groups and tied each section with a big overhand knot. Approximately a foot of extra twine hangs wisely out of each bundle.

6.    HANGING THE HAMMOCK : You can suspend your sling bed from the eyebolts mentioned earlier, work out something with ropes and trees or hang the big fish net couch from ceiling beams. Whatever, allow in advance for more weight than you ever expect the bed to hold. This hammock is roomy for one person and will hold two or more if you all wrap around each other. Just make sure your new piece of aerial furniture is fastened securely enough to hold you, your friends and any added stress and strain it may be called on to handle.

7.     For a final touch, throw a colorful Persian rug or a deep-pile fur across your hammock . . . or string beads on it (wax or glue the cord tips, pinch the ends small enough to thread through the decorations and let the twine dry). An air mattress over the knots adds comfort and—for sheer playful luxury when you stretch out—you can suspend hanging candles, potted plants incense holders, mobiles, toys or bowls of fruit over your aerial bed.

8. And don’t forget to hang that hammock in the best spot you can find.

This macrame pattern was originally published in Mother Earth News.

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I know we often think of macrame for purses, jewelry, plant hangers, perhaps owls? But there are other interesting applications available for macrame about your home other than just the old favorites.  Macrame can be used in many, many different ways. We are only limited by our own imagination! Here are some ideas I found from Dona Meilach:
“…decorative and functional aspects are unlimited; the only requirements
are imagining where an unusual treatment is needed, then fashioning
Macrame to fill that need. The following are a few ideas for using
Macrame in both traditional and contemporary decorating.
Joan Michaels Paque has knotted a room-divider screen. Knotted
fabrics are set into a frame and worked over horizontal wood dowels
for a functional and decorative treatment. Next to it is a vase with
a Macrame covering to show how subtle and beautiful Macrame can
be. She also has trimmed kitchen curtains with Macrame and made
curtains for entire doors and windows. All cords used are pretested
for washability; some are washed before knotting to eliminate shrinkage
after the piece is created to size.
Try knotting around plastic containers or flowerpots whose surfaces
are worn beyond repair. Or cover any pot for an unusual decor and
to tie in with a color scheme. Lampshades, bottles, temporary fireplace
screens, room dividers, doorway coverings, tablecloths, doilies,
hanging flower containers, valances, and scores of other items may be
fashioned from knotted cords in colors and designs that are individually
yours”. What a great way to fulfill your creative desires!

Think of all the many different ways you can use macrame around your home to create a warm and cozy environment?

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I cam across this wonderful pattern for a macrame spice rack out of an old vintage book called “Judys Way With Macrame”  It’s too bad that all these great macrame patterns are getting lost with time. I am sharing the pattern here, although I do not have a photo to inspire you, simply imagine 2 pieces of wood, suspended from 2 macrame knotted cords. These 2 pieces of wood are the shelves, and when hung against a wall and properly secured, make a beautiful spice rack (keep it well away from the oven, we don’t want that beautiful fringe going up in smoke!).  I think this would also make a very lovely 2 tiered decorative shelf for a bathroom or hallway. This project is wonderfully quick. Here is the pattern:

Finished Length: 24″ including fringe

Macrame Supplies:

27 yards 4-5mm cord that will unravel
One 2 ” wood ring — painted or stained
Two 3″ x 10″ boards with 3/8″ hole drilled in each corner of board – 3/4″
board suggested

Preparation:

4 cords4-1/3 yards long and4cords2-1/3 yards long

Step by Step Instructions:

1. Lark’s Head the longer cords onto the ring. Tie 7″ of Half Knots (HK)
with each group of 4 cords.
2. Divide the cords into 4 groups of 2 cords each. Add a shorter cord to each
group of 2 cords with a HK.  Tie 4/4″ of HK
with each group of 4 cords.
3. Put 4 cords thru each hole in one board. Tie 5″ of HK with each group
using the 2 longest cords as knotting cords.
4. Put 4 cords thru each hole in the other board. Using the 2 longest cords as
knotting cords, tie 8 HK around all the cords (6 filler cords). Repeat on
other side with remaining cords.
5. Trim ends to 3″ and unravel cord ends.

Hang in your kitchen, bathroom or hallway and enjoy!

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It’s important that you keep your macrame project firmly anchored in place while you’re working.  You’ll want to secure the cord ends using an anchor of some kind.  The benefits of anchoring your work include:

macrame project board is used to secure your work

• You have the ability to keep your cords tight and secure.  This leads to macrame work that is uniform and precise in tightness and size.

One way that you can anchor your work is by using a macrame board.  Use pins to secure the ends of the cording to the board.  Make sure that the ends of the cording are aligned so that your work at the start of the project is as neat and uniform as the end.

Another way that you can anchor your cording is by using a simple clip board.  A clip board will allow you to move through the steps of your project as well as store the unfinished piece when you’re not working on it.  The cording will remain neat and tidy until you’re ready to begin work again.  Using a clip board is easy:  secure the cord underneath the clip, allowing the cords to hang free.  If you’re working with center cords you can secure them to the clip board using tape.

A split ring is another way that you can anchor your work and keep it secure.  After creating your beginning knot slip the knot into the slot of the split ring.  Then hook the ring onto a stable object such as a doorknob or a clothes hook.  For many projects you’ll be required to cut some strands twice as long as others.  In this case all you need to do is loop the fold of cords over the top of the ring.  When you’re ready to tighten the knots all you need to do is remove the entire project from the ring.

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When I first began macrame, I didn’t always understand some of the shorthand found in most pattern books. If you are just starting out, use this handy reference guide to understand what the various abbreviations mean. Here you go:

MACRAME KNOT ABBREVIATIONS

• LHK-Larks Head Knot
• SK – Square Knot
• HK-Half Knot
• ASK – Alternating Square Knot
• SHH – Single Half Hitch (first half of a double half
• hitch)
• DHH – Double Half Hitch
• THH – Triple Half Hitch (each cord is knotted onto
• the Holding Cord 3 times)
• OK – Overhand Knot
• ASHH – Alternating Single Half Hitch Chain
• BK – Berry Knot
• CCK – Chinese Crown Knot
• JK – Josephine Knot

MACRAME TERM ABBREVIATIONS

• WC – Working Cords or cords
• HC – Holding Cord

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Macrame Plant Hangers: Basic Plant Hanger for a Beginner

This is a free macrame pattern for a very basic plant hanger. This pattern is great for beginners. It only uses one type of knot, the square knot and variations such as the square knot sinnet, and rows of alternating square knots.

Materials needed:

-45 yds 6mm Braided Polypropylene  Macrame Cord

-One  2 1/4 in metal ring

Cut:

4 cords – 7 yards long
4 cords – 3 yards long
2 cords – 1 yard long

1. Use a scrap piece of cord to tie the center of all eight cords together.
2. Center the eight cords over the ring, and tie a wrapping knot for 3 in.
3. Separate into groups 2long and 2short cords each. You now have four groups of four cords each group.
4. Take group one and tie a square knot close to the wrap, using 2 long knotting cords and two short filler cords. Continue to tie a square knot sinnet for 16in.
5. Repeat for the other groups of cords.
6. Drop down 5in and tie a row of alternating square knots, to connect the sinnets and begin the basket.
7. Drop down 2in and tie another row of alternating square knots.
8. Tie a third row of alternating square knots up close to the last row to close the basket.
9. Cut a wrapping cord 1yd long. Gather all tail cords together directly under the last row of alternating square knots. Tie a 1in gathering wrap. Trim and wrap up close and fuse. Trim tail cords to length. Fuse ends to prevent unraveling.

Thanks to Charlie Emery for providing this pattern.

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Josephine Knot

THE JOSEPHINE KNOT
The Josephine Knot, (sometimes also referred to as the
“Garrick Bend),” is a decorative knot used
within a pattern or by itself for a belt or
jewelry. It can be tied with two, four, or any
multiple of cords and knots intertwined. As
with many knots, the diagrams make the
procedure look more complex than it is. This macrame knot is actually not that hard to do, and the results are wonderful.  Carefully
following the directions will result in a
beautiful, easy-to-do knot. It may be tied
loosely or tightly. If loosely tied cords tend
to slip, a dab of glue at the back will hold
them. Two cords (or four strands) are used in
the illustration, but you could also add more texture and complexity by using two groups of cords together.

The illustrations to the left is another preview from my newly revised guide to macrame. If you are looking for a complete guide to macrame, look no further:

One Stop Macrame Shop this is a comprehensive guide filled with all the knot illustrations you’ll need, tons of patterns, fun tips, eye candy, artist profiles and really just everything you would want in a book all about macrame. The best part is, this online book is available immediately, you can download this and get going on some new macrame projects today.

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Easter will be here on April 24th of this year, so how about a macrame Easter basket to hold all those hand decorated eggs and chocolate bunnies?

I have found two different macrame patterns for you to create a one of a kind macrame Easter basket this year. What a special treat! Of course you’ll want to use a spring color for your basket-pink, yellow and pale green are my favorites. You’ll want to consider the grass you’ll use inside the basket as well to create a color coordinated look for your basket. As a final touch, add a great big bow to the handle of the basket to really set it off. And don’t forget to send in photos of your work so the rest of us can see!

Here are the two free patterns available at our favorite macrame supply stores:

Macrame Easter Basket Pattern from Macrame Superstore

Macrame Easter Basket Pattern from KingsKountry

With only 23 days to go, you had better get started on this one. Do you have other ideas for macrame holiday crafts? I would love to post your patterns, so send them in!

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This is another very easy & basic plant hanger for you to create, or perhaps something to get a friend started and hooked on this fun craft! This pattern is very similar to the Basic Plant Hanger Pattern last week, but it adds beads.

Materials:

-45yds 6mm Braided Polypropylene Cord

-One 2 1/4in metal ring

-Eight 3/4″ wooden beads, and eight 1/2″ wooden beads (Color to match cord).

Cut:

-4 cords – 7 yards long

-4 cords – 3 yards long

-2 cords – 1 yard long

1. Use a scrap piece of cord to tie the center of all eight cords together.
2. Center the eight cords over the ring, and tie a wrapping knot for 3in.
3. Separate into groups 2long and 2short cords each. You now have four groups of four cords each group.
4. Take group one and tie a square knot close to the wrap, using 2 long knotting cords and two short filler cords. Continue to tie a square knot sinnet for 5 knots (about 3in.)
5. Now tie a square knot crossover taking the two filler cords and make them the new tying cords, and a 3/4in. bead to the new filler cords and tie a square knot bellow to hold it in place.
6. Tie a second square knot crossover right below the last square knot revering the cords, tie in reverse of the last square knot crossover add a 3/4 bead as before. You now have two square knot crossovers.
7. Now  tie a half knot sinnet for 4 in. about 9 half knots one complete turn. End with two square knots.
8. Now tie a drop down square knot where we will add two of our 1/2in. beads to the outside knotting cords, tie the bottom square knot up under the beads Now tie two more square knots, giving us 5 knots from the half knot sinnet.
   We now have a total length of 16in of knots.
9. Repeat for the other groups of cords. You now have all four legs of the hanger.
10. Drop down 5 to 7 in and tie a row of alternating square knots, to connect the legs and begin the basket.
11. Drop down 3in and tie another row of alternating square knots.
12. Tie a third row of alternating square knots up close to the last row to close the basket.
13. Cut a wrapping cord 1yd long. Gather all tail cords together directly under the last row of alternating square knots. Tie a 1in gathering wrap. Trim and wrap up close and fuse ends. Trim tail cords to length. Fuse ends to prevent unraveling or tie a over hand knot to finish.

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