How To Make A Simple DIY Macrame Bracelet

What do you get when you hand-tie lots of Square Knots in a cord? A macrame bracelet, of course.

This type of jewelry is not only unique and stylish, but it's also surprisingly easy to make once you master a few basics. So if you're in the mood for a fun DIY project, give macrame bracelets a try!

Table Of Contents

• What Is A Macrame Bracelet?
• Basic Macrame Tips
• Supplies You Need
• Creating A Simple Macrame Bracelet
• Expanding Your Skills

What Is A Macrame Bracelet?

Macrame is an old art form that dates back to early Babylon and Assyria. Similar to crocheting and knitting, this craft involves knotting cords or ropes to create decorative patterns.

However, instead of using a hook or needles, macrame is done entirely by hand. This gives the finished product a rustic, handmade look that’s perfect for unique jewelry, like bracelets.

You can create a bracelet entirely from the cord or add beads and other embellishments for extra flair. Either way, macrame bracelets make beautiful, one-of-a-kind gifts.

Basic Macrame Tips

Before you begin turning out macrame projects, here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Choose a sturdy cord material. The quality of your cord matters, so go with the premium cotton cord from GANXXET to give you superior results.
• Start with a simple pattern. There are plenty of macrame bracelet patterns to choose from, but it's best to start with something basic. Once you get the hang of it, you can move on to more complicated designs.
• Get sharp scissors. Dull scissors won’t cut your cord cleanly, and you’ll be left with fringe. Do yourself a favor and get a pair of sharp scissors just for cutting the cord.
• Practice tying the knots. New knots take time to learn. If you’ve never tied macrame knots before, practice before you start your bracelet. That way, you can avoid any frustration later on.
• Keep your work steady. If your bracelet is wobbling all over the place, it will be harder to tie knots. To keep your work steady, clamp one end of the cord down securely.

Supplies You’ll Need

This macrame project is perfect for beginners. A bracelet uses only one type of knot, the Square Knot, so it's easy to learn.

Plus, it's a relatively small project, so it won't take too long to complete. But don't let its simplicity fool you. This project is still incredibly versatile!

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• GANXXET Soft Cotton Rope Zero Waste 4mm - 1 Single Strand
• Sharp scissors
• Clipboard
• Measuring tape
• Wooden dowel

Creating A Simple Macrame Bracelet

First, you need to measure your wrist to know how big your bracelet needs to be. This is the finished length of your bracelet.

But, if you cut your cord to that length now, your bracelet will be too small when you finish the knotting process. After all, those knots reduce its size. To get the length you want, multiply the finished length by five. Then, add five inches to that number.

Here’s a quick example:

Finished length: 7 inches
Multiply by five: 35 inches
Add five: 40 inches

Once you know your final measurement, cut two pieces of cotton cord to that length.

Then, cut a filler cord that’s 18 inches long. You’ll use the filler cord to tie the macrame knots around. It’ll hide in-between the two long threads, and you can use a different color for contrast or keep it the same.

Find the center of your three cords and attach them to the wooden dowel with a quick knot. Your filler cord should be in the middle of the other two.

Now, secure your dowel with the clip of the clipboard. This keeps your project secure, and since it’s portable, you can work on your macrame anywhere!

Make Square Knots

As we mentioned, a simple bracelet uses the Square Knot, which is a basic macrame knot used in various projects. If you aren’t already familiar with it, you’ll want to watch this tutorial before you move on.

The written directions make it seem a bit complicated, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it by seeing someone else do it.

1. Begin by curving the furthest left cord to the right.
2. Next, bring the thread over the filler cord and under the line on the right.
3. Then, move the right working cord to the left. This time, go under the filler and over the left working cord.
4. Pull both ends tight, and you’ll have the first half of your first knot.
5. Now, you’re going to make the second half of the knot. Move your left cord (that’s now on the right) back to the left. Go over the filler and under the right thread.
6. Then, move the right cord (that’s now on the left) back to the right.
7. Next, go under the filler and over the left line.
8. Once again, pull both ends tightly. You should have a nice, snug knot in the center.

That’s one Square Knot! Repeat this process until you reach the end of your bracelet. Every few knots, take time to push the knots close together. You don’t want any larger gaps in your bracelet.

And if you mess up with a knot, that’s OK. Just untie it and try again. Pretty soon, you’ll be able to make Square Knots in your sleep, and you won’t have to think about it anymore. So don’t give up if you don’t get it right the first time.

Finish Your Bracelet

When you reach the end of your bracelet, it’s time to finish it off. Make one final knot and trim the excess cord, leaving about an inch or two.

Now, take the end of the cord and thread it through the loop created by the other end. Pull it tight and then trim away any excess.

Your bracelet is now complete! You can wear it as-is or add a macrame bracelet clasp for extra security.

Expanding Your Skills

A Square Knot bracelet is only the beginning. Once you get the hang of macrame, you can start experimenting with other knots and patterns.

You can also add beads or other embellishments to your macrame jewelry and tie flowers and different shapes into your projects.

And if you love macrame, don't stop at making bracelets. Try creating a dog leash, too. Or a yoga strap. You can even make a headband. The sky really is the limit when it comes to designing with cord.

Let your creativity run wild and see what you can come up with!

DIY Jewelry For The Win

You can make a simple macrame bracelet with a single knot, tied over and over again. Beautiful DIY jewelry doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, some of the best-looking pieces are simple to create. So get out there and start knotting!

No matter what you want to create, GANXXET Macrame Cord is the perfect material to use. It's strong yet soft and flexible, so it's easy to work with. And because it’s available in lots of colors, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your next project!