How to Make a Macrame Wall Hanging

Ever caught yourself eyeing a gorgeous macrame wall hanging for sale and cringing at the price tag? I’ve been there—tempted to buy one but thinking, “I can’t justify spending that much!” But hold onto your purse strings, because guess what? You can make them yourself, and it’s way easier than deciphering IKEA instructions! Trust me, I was a skeptic too until I crafted my first one. I felt like a DIY master, and my walls never looked better… until I ran out of space and had to start bribing family members to take them off my hands.

So, let’s unravel the mystery together and learn how to create these boho-chic beauties that’ll have your guests asking, ‘Where did you buy that?'” 

And guess what? You only need to know three macrame knots!

What do I need to make a Macrame Wall Hanging?

• 15cm wall hanging support
• 3mm or 4mm of Macrame cord (colour of your choice)
  • 10 pieces at 122cm 
• Something to hang it on whilst you work like a clothes rail
• Scissors
• Ruler

STEP 1: The Lark’s Head Knot

Fold each of the cut cords in half evenly and secure to your hanging support using a lark’s head knot. For information on this, check out my blog 5 easy macrame knots. Once all the cord is attached, you’re ready for the next step.

STEP 2: The Square Knot

Now that your cords are securely attached, it’s time to dive into the second knot: the classic square knot. Don’t let the name intimidate you—it’s super simple once you get the hang of it.

1. Take four cords at a time (the two outer cords are the working cords, and the two middle cords will stay in place as the anchor).
2. Cross the left working cord over the two middle cords, forming a loop.
3. Then take the right working cord over the tail of the left working cord, behind the two middle cords, and pull it through the loop on the left side.
4. Tighten it up!
5. Repeat the same process, but this time starting with the right cord over the middle ones and looping the left cord underneath and through the loop on the right side.

Repeat this step until you’ve completed a row across your macrame. Then for the next row you’ll need to leave two pieces of cord, and take the next four pieces and create another square knot, leaving two pieces at the end. If you get stuck, please refer to the amazing video above!

STEP 3: The Half Hitch Knot

Next, we’ll use a half hitch knot to add some visual interest and a touch of elegance to your design.

1. Starting from the left, take your outermost cord and drape it diagonally across the rest of the cords.
2. Grab the next cord and loop it over and under the first cord to create a hitch. Pull tight.
3. Continue the same process with the remaining cords until you’ve made a beautiful diagonal line.

Once you’ve done this, repeat the process from the other side to create a symmetrical design. This is where your macrame starts to take shape!

STEP 4: Trimming and Finishing Touches

Now for the final step—giving your wall hanging a polished look. Once you’ve tied all your knots, it’s time to trim the excess cord.

1. Decide how long you want your wall hanging to be, and carefully use your scissors to trim the bottom cords in a straight line or a V-shape for a more dramatic effect.
2. Smooth out any uneven edges by adjusting the lengths until everything looks neat and balanced.

Final Thoughts

Making a macrame wall hanging is a rewarding project that adds a personal, artistic touch to any space. Plus, once you’ve mastered these basic knots, the possibilities for customisation are endless—whether it’s incorporating beads, adding colour, or experimenting with different designs. Just like these ones below!

Who knew something so chic could be so simple? Now, when your friends ask, “Where did you get that?” you can say with pride, “I made it!” …and maybe a smug face!

FAQs

What is macrame wall hanging?

A macrame wall hanging is a decorative piece created by knotting cords in various patterns. Often used to add texture and bohemian charm to walls, it’s crafted from natural materials like cotton. Macrame art can range from simple designs to intricate, large-scale creations.

What is the best cord to use for macrame wall hanging?

The best cord to use for a macrame wall hanging is typically 3-5mm cotton rope. Cotton is soft, strong, and easy to work with, making it ideal for intricate knots. Its natural look complements macrame’s organic aesthetic, though other materials like jute or hemp are also used.

Are macrame wall hangings in style?

Macrame wall hangings are definitely in style, reflecting the current trend of bohemian and handmade decor. Their timeless appeal adds warmth and texture to modern interiors, and their resurgence in popularity highlights a growing appreciation for artisanal craft.