New Craft Project
Macramé has seen a huge revival in recent years – from stylish plant hangers to handmade keychains and wall hangings. But what exactly is macramé, and where did it come from? If you’re curious about this beautiful craft and want to give it a try, this beginner’s guide will walk you through the basics, a little history, and some simple Macramé for Beginners project ideas to get you started.
What is Macramé?
Macramé is the art of knotting cords or strings into decorative patterns to create both practical and decorative items. Unlike knitting or crochet, macramé doesn’t require needles or hooks – just your hands, some cord, and a few basic knots.
It’s an incredibly versatile craft. With just a couple of knots, you can make everything from small accessories like keychains to larger home décor pieces like wall hangings or even curtains if you’re feeling adventurous.
A Short History of Macramé
Macramé has been around for centuries and has roots in different cultures.
- Arabic origins – The word macramé comes from the Arabic word migramah, meaning “fringe.” It’s believed that weavers in the 13th century used the technique to finish the edges of fabrics.
- European spread – The craft spread to Spain and across Europe through trade, becoming popular during the Victorian era, when macramé lacework decorated curtains, tablecloths, and clothing.
- Modern revival – In the 1970s, macramé became a bohemian favourite, especially for plant hangers and wall hangings. Today, it’s enjoying another wave of popularity as a mindful, creative hobby that produces beautiful handmade pieces.
There are many other knotting traditions around the globe that I will touch briefly on towards the end of this post.
What Materials Do You Need for Macramé for Beginners?
Macrame Resources
I’m always on the look out for macrame resources. You can find resources that we use here.
One of the best things about macramé is how few supplies you need to get started. Here are the essentials:
- Macramé cord – Available in cotton, jute, or synthetic fibres. Cotton cord is the best choice for beginners because it’s soft, easy to work with, and unravels neatly for a fringed finish. Most of the beginner projects I share use 4 strand twisted cotton cord.
- Scissors – A sharp pair for cutting cord cleanly.
- Support for your work – A dowel rod, branch, or even a keyring can serve as the base for your project. Some projects I share require floristry wire.
- Measuring tape – Useful to cut cords to the right length. I do often try to give measurements in arm lengths etc. if you don’t have a tape measure or ruler.
- Optional tools – A macramé board, masking tape, or pins to hold your work steady while you knot. You will see in lots of tutorial people working with cords hanging down. I have some health trickies that make having my hands in a raised position for long isn’t possible. I generally do projects that I hope everyone will be able to join in with my working on a flat surface, often with a clipboard or a board and bulldog clip.
Macrame Cord Pricing
I’m UK based. As a rough guide I look for 3mm macrame cord that is less than £6-£6.50 per 100m. If you’re UK based then The Range have some amazing deals on macrame cord which brings the price down to around £2.50 for 100m. You can find good multiple sets of colours that work out good value.
Why Try Macramé?
Macramé is a wonderful craft for beginners. Let me tell you why I found this a great craft to start and still very much enjoy doing it regularly:
- You only need a few basic knots to start.
- It’s relaxing and meditative – knotting can feel a bit like mindfulness in motion.
- You can complete small projects quickly and build confidence before moving onto bigger ones. Or, like me, stick to smaller projects and help balance with my energy levels.
- Materials are simple and affordable – cord, scissors, and a surface to work on are often enough.
Beginner-Friendly Macramé Projects to Try
If you’re new to macramé, it’s best to start small. Building up confidence and developing your knowledge of different knots is key to success. Here are some easy beginner macramé projects I’ve created tutorials for – perfect for learning the basics while making something you can actually use or gift.
My YouTube tutorials are intentionally super slow so that you can follow along with me as you learn. The projects are ideal for adults and children alike. As always, I’d ensure adult supervision for any creative projects with children.
Macramé for Beginners
Spiral Keychain
This pattern is the ideal first project for a beginner. Here you will learn the half square knot to for a spiral design. Check out the blog post for full step by step guide here.
Leaf/ Feather Decor Project
The leaf/ feather uses the same square knot as the previous keychain but makes something very different. Check out the guide and tutorial here.
Crown Knot – Octopus
Another keychain but introducing you to the crown and gathering knot. Check out my YouTube vid!
If you prefer written, illustrated step by step instructions then check out the two projects below where you will be able to see the crown knot.
Candy Cane – Crown Knot
Let’s move on from keychains and onto decoration. I love making this cute little candy canes. They make such wonderful Christmas decorations and to gift. Check out the guide and tutorial here.
Hearts – Crown Knot
The hearts are the equivalent of double the working time of the candy cane so a great next project. Check out the guide and tutorial here.
Need Macramé for Beginners Help?
If you need help with any macramé projects then do come ask any questions in the new Facebook group.
Macramé Around the World
Macramé as we know it has deep roots in Arabic weaving and later European craft, but the art of knotting cords into decorative or meaningful designs is found across many cultures. Here are a few examples of global knotting traditions:
Chinese Decorative Knotting (中国结 – Zhōngguó jié)
Chinese knotting has been practised for thousands of years, flourishing during the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Each knot carries symbolic meaning – such as luck, prosperity, or longevity – and designs are often symmetrical, crafted from a single cord looped into intricate patterns. Traditionally made with silk, these knots are still popular today as ornaments and gifts, especially during Lunar New Year.
Japanese Mizuhiki
In Japan, mizuhiki is a decorative art form using stiff rice-paper cords that are twisted, knotted, and tied. These knots are most commonly seen on envelopes given at weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations, symbolising good wishes and connection. Unlike macramé, which creates larger items, mizuhiki focuses on small, detailed knots with strong cultural meaning.
Peruvian Quipu
In the Andes, the Inca civilisation developed quipu (also called khipu), a system of knotted cords used for record-keeping rather than decoration. Different knots, colours, and cord placements represented numbers and information. While not decorative like macramé, it shows how knotting was a practical and important skill in different parts of the world.
Sailors’ Knotwork
Sailors across the world have long used knotting skills, both for practical and decorative purposes. From hammocks and nets to bottle covers and belts, sailors perfected the art of strong, durable knots. Many of their decorative patterns influenced modern macramé and helped spread it globally through trade and travel.
Ready to Get Knotting?
Macramé is such a rewarding craft to explore – it combines creativity, mindfulness, and practicality. Whether you want to make a quick keychain or a statement wall hanging, you’ll be surprised at how fast you can pick it up.
If you’d like to start your first project do check out some of the projects I’ve mentioned above. You’ll find more macramé tutorials on my YouTube channel below and on the website here.
Macramé Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is macramé?
A: Macramé is the art of knotting cords or strings into decorative and functional patterns – without the need for needles or hooks. It’s often used to create items like plant hangers, keychains, wall hangings, and more.
Q: Do I need special tools or skills to start macramé?
A: Not at all! All you need is some cord, scissors, and a way to anchor your work (like a dowel or keyring). Basic knots are easy to learn, and practice helps you improve quickly. The patterns I’ve recommend above all work on repeating one knot over and over so you gain that knot skill quickly through simple repetition.
Q: What materials work best for beginners?
A: Cotton cord is highly recommended for beginners—it’s soft, easy to knot, and ideal for practising basic techniques. Other options include jute or synthetic cords, depending on the look and feel you want. I’d recommend experimenting once you’ve had a little practise with cotton cord. Personally, I’d use the four strand twisted variety whilst you’re learning with the exception being the leaf/ feather where I would use single strand cotton.
Q: Is macramé the same as knitting or crochet?
A: No – while knitting and crochet use loops and stitches made with hooks or needles, macramé is purely knot-based. You only need your hands and cord. This make it an ideal project for people who struggle to hold and manipulate tools.
Q: Can I really learn it quickly?
A: Absolutely! Many small beginner projects – like keychains can be finished in under an hour. It’s both rewarding and great for building confidence.
Further Macramé Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are there cultural versions of macramé to explore?
A: Yes! Crafts like Chinese decorative knotting (中国结), Japanese mizuhiki, Inca quipu, and sailors’ knotwork are fascinating traditions based on knotting. They highlight how knotting techniques and creativity appear across cultures. See my Macramé Around the World section for details.)
Q: Where can I find help or inspiration as a beginner?
A: If you ever need guidance or want to share your progress, feel free to join the new Facebook group linked in the post or explore my other beginner tutorials in the macramé category.
Busy Busy Learning Facebook Groups
Click on the links below to join groups: