Macrame is a fun and creative craft to learn, with seemingly infinite design possibilities. If you're trying to decide what to make next, let these macrame ideas inspire you! They’re perfect for beginners.
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What Is Macrame?
Macrame is an art and craft form that involves tying knots with cords to create decorative pieces. This technique dates back centuries, with some of the earliest known examples found in 13th-century Arabia.
Today, macrame is still popular and can be used to make everything from wall hangings and plant hangers to jewelry and home decor items.
Macrame Tools And Supplies
You don't need much to get started with macrame. The essential tools and supplies include:
- Macrame cord
- A starting point (like a hoop, dowel, or key ring)
- Scissors
- Tape measure
In addition, some projects might call for embellishments, such as beads or feathers. And if you’re adding fringe, you’ll want to pick up a Macrame Cord Fringe Brush.
Since there is some variation in what you need, it's a good idea to check the pattern you want to follow to make sure you have the right macrame supplies on hand.
Macrame Knots
Before you begin, review the basic macrame knots. This video shows you how to tie many of them:
Macrame Ideas For Beginners
Once you have your supplies and a basic understanding of how to tie macrame knots, it's time to get crafting!
Pick one of these macrame ideas and give it a try.
1) Keychain
Keep your keys organized with a handmade macrame keychain. The fringe on it adds a fun and unique touch.
2) Bookmark
You won’t have to worry about losing your spot when you use this macrame bookmark.
3) Photo Holder
Display your photos in style with this boho-chic photo holder. The chunky, 9mm macrame cord gives the project lots of texture!
4) Pendant
Show your love for fiber arts with this stunning macrame pendant.
5) Bracelet
Do you remember the friendship bracelet fad from childhood? That was macrame! And now you can make a grown-up version with this bracelet tutorial.
6) Plant Hanger
A macrame plant hanger can be simple or elaborate. It’s up to you. Here are some written directions for a five-step plant hanger that’s pretty basic.
And here’s a video tutorial for one with a little more pizazz at the top.
7) Bag
Get ready for summer by making yourself a cute, lightweight handbag.
8) Headband
Keep your hair out of your face with a stylish macrame headband.
9) Wall Hanging
Perhaps macrame’s most iconic project is the wall hanging. Even as a beginner, you can create beautiful art for your home.
Here’s one that uses only Square Knots:
10) Belt
Complete your look with a handmade macrame belt.
11) Feathers
Macrame feathers look stunning! But they’re surprisingly simple to create.
12) Curtain Tie-Backs
Want to let some natural light into your home? Use macrame to make a pair of curtain tie-backs.
13) Hat Hanger
Show off your hat collection with these adorable hangers. Our Macrame Cotton Rope Zero Waste 3 Ply 3 mm is the right size cord for this project.
14) Macrame Turtle
Macrame animals are so cute! Start with this turtle, and then see what other critters you can create.
15) Coasters
These heart-shaped coasters give you a lovely place to rest your coffee or soda.
16) Wreath
Adorn your door with this macrame wreath. Just be sure to use our Outdoor Cord when you create it so it doesn’t get damaged by the weather.
17) Yoga Mat Strap
Keep your yoga mat secure and always on hand with this macrame strap.
18) Water Bottle Holder
Strap your water bottle to your body with this simple sling. It’ll help you stay hydrated no matter where life takes you.
19) Pillow Cover
What do you get when you combine a pre-made pillowcase with a few macrame knots? A one-of-a-kind macrame pillow cover, of course!
20) Santa Ornament
Add this adorable Santa ornament to your Christmas decor. It’s an easy DIY project.
21) Dream Catcher
Bring good dreams into your home with a beautiful macrame dreamcatcher. It comes together quickly, so you can sleep in peace tonight.
22) Room Divider
Turn a plain wooden room divider into a work of art with your macrame skills.
23) Easter Basket
Skip the plastic and make a unique Easter basket with macrame. It'll make the holiday even more special.
24) Blanket Ladder
Add extra storage to your bathroom, bedroom, or living room with this beautiful blanket ladder. It’s also a great addition to a nursery.
25) Scrunchie
Use our Barcelona Braided Cord to create several scrunchies in different colors.
26) Placemats
Your table will be company ready with these macrame placemats. Plan on making one for each place setting.
27) Lanyard
Use this simple lanyard to keep track of your company badge.
28) Ring
With only Square Knots, you can turn some of our 1mm Combed Cotton Cord into a lovely ring.
29) Tree Of Life Hanging
Have you seen those amazing Tree of Life wall hangings making their way around social media? Now you can macrame one of your own.
30) Pumpkin Decor
If you’re a pumpkin fan, you’ll love this decorative pumpkin.
31) Pet Collar
Don’t settle for a store-bought collar for your precious pooch. Instead, follow this tutorial to make a unique one.
32) Magazine Holder
Use these simple magazine holders to display the latest issues of your favorite periodicals.
33) Hanging Shelf
Add some greenery to your living space with this double-tier hanging shelf. It’ll look great with potted plants on it.
34) Mirror Wall Hanging
Turn a plain-Jane mirror into a boho-chic masterpiece.
35) Toy Hammock
Calm the clutter with this simple toy hammock. It’s a kid-friendly addition to any room.
Try These Macrame Ideas Today!
From keychains to Easter baskets, you can make almost anything out of macrame! And with all these beginner-friendly macrame ideas, you don’t have to worry about being an expert before you create something beautiful.
Grab some GANXXET macrame cord and get knotting!