🧶 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: 

How to Tie 5 Basic Macrame Knots | Beginner-Friendly Tutorial by Macrya

📌 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.