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🧶 5 Basic Macrame Knots for Beginners (A Step-by-Step Guide)
Love macrame but not sure how to start?
At Macrya, we’ve put together a simple, visual guide to the 5 basic macrame knots that every beginner should know. Master these, and you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful, handmade macrame pieces!
✨ Today’s Goals
- Get familiar with fundamental macrame knots.
- Learn through easy-to-follow visuals and video.
- Discover practical ways to apply each knot.
- Practice with a small project ( a mini macrame wall hanging)
1. Lark’s Head Knot
This is the starting knot used to attach cords to a dowel or ring.
How to make it:
- Fold your cord in half.
- Loop the folded end behind your dowel.
- Pull both ends through the loop and tighten.
Where you’ll see it
Macrame Wall Hanging – Handmade Cotton Art for Your Home
Macrame Rearview Mirror Hanger – with Boho Vibe
Macrame Plant Hanger – Long Handmade Cotton Rope Holder
2. Square Knot
The most versatile and widely used knot in macrame projects like plant hangers, keychains, and wall art.
How to make it:
- Use 4 cords: 2 center cords and 2 working cords.
- Cross left cord over the center, right cord over that, then behind and through.
- Repeat in reverse to complete the square.
Variation:
- Half Square Knot (one-sided): creates a spiral twist.
Where you’ll see it
Macrame Keychain Pouch – Personalized Mini Handmade Bag
Macrame Bottle Holder – Handmade Cotton Carrier
Macrame Rectangle Coaster – Handmade Cotton Mat
3. Double Half Hitch Knot
Used to create diagonal or horizontal lines in your macrame design.
How to make it:
- Choose one cord as the holding (anchor) cord.
- Use another cord to tie two loops over and around the anchor cord.
Pro tip: Maintain even tension for a smooth line.
Where you’ll see it
Macrame Leaf Wall Hanging – Handmade Olive Green Wall Art
Macrame Tote Bag – Boho Knotted Cord Design
Macrame Pet Bandana – Handmade Cotton Scarf for Stylish Pets
4. Spiral Knot
This is simply a repetition of Half Square Knots on one side, creating a natural spiral.
How to make it:
- Continue tying Half Square Knots on the same side.
- After 4–5 knots, the cord will naturally start to twist.
Use: Decorative detail for phone straps or handles.
Where you’ll see it
Macrame Phone Strap – Handmade Colorful Lanyard with Beads
Macrame Table Runner – Handmade Cotton Décor for Cozy Tables
Macrame Plant Hanger – Handmade Cotton Pot Holder
5. Gathering Knot
Perfect for wrapping and securing multiple cords together, often seen at the bottom of plant hangers or bag straps.
How to make it:
- Lay a long cord along the bunch of cords.
- Wrap it tightly several times.
- Pull the end through the loop and tuck it neatly.
Where you’ll see it
Macrame Crossbody Bag – Handmade Cotton Summer Purse
Macrame Market Bag – Handmade Cotton Tote for Everyday Carry
Macrame Flower Phone Strap – A Soft Handmade Hug
Follow our step-by-step video tutorials on YouTube to learn visually and easily.
🎬Watch the full video tutorial here:
📌 Application: Make Your First Wall Hanging
Now that you’ve learned the 5 essential knots, let’s apply them in a simple project you can proudly display: a beginner-friendly wall hanging using only these techniques!
🎬Watch the full video tutorial here:
How to Make a Simple Macrame Wall Hanging (Beginner DIY Project)
➡️ Stay tuned on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MacryaWithLove
🌱Now that you’ve learned the knots, it’s time to see them come to life.
At Macrya, we use these exact knots in every handcrafted piece—from graceful wall hangings to boho-style phone straps and plant holders. If you’re not ready to DIY just yet, our finished macrame creations are here to inspire or become part of your home.
👉 Browse our collection of ready-made designs: https://macrya.com/shop/
Every piece is made with care—and every knot tells a story.
