Macrame Knowledge Base

Basic Macrame terminology

• Row: A line of knots side by side, each tied with a different working cord.
• Alternating Cords: Forming a new group of cords by taking half the cords from adjacent knots previous tied, and tying a new knot the lays below and between where the cords are from.
• Filler Cords: The cords that are in the center of the knotting cords.
• Holding Cord: The Cord, Dowel, or ring onto which you anchor your project while you work on it.
• Knotting Cords: The right and left cords that are used to tie knots over filler cords.
• Working Cords: All cords in a design, those that do the tying (knotting cords), and the ones that are tied around (filler cords).
• Wrapping Cord: The cord used to gather and wrap a group of cords. You’ll see this at the top of a plant hanger.

What are the Needed macrame supplies?

Cord or rope is the most important supply. No shock on that. Then of course you need sharp scissors and measuring tape. Those are the essential ones.

Then comes the optional. Wooden rings, metal rings, sticks or dowels, beads in different sizes and materials (wooden, plastic, metal, etc.), ribbons, etc.

And also, optionally you can use other items that will help you make the project easier and organized, like T-pins, rubber Bands, macrame board, crochet hooks, and embroidery needles, among other items.

What is the best Cord or rope for Macrame?

For macrame, the most important supply you need is some sort of Macrame Cord, Rope or String, so let’s start by defining each one:

Macrame cord: is a tightly braided six-strand (or sometimes more) cotton cord separated into sections twisted around each other to form a thicker and stronger rope. Sturdy, but not the best if you want to brush out the ends for fringe.

Macrame rope: is usually 3-strand rope (or sometimes four) where the strands are twisted around each other. It’s stronger than macrame string but softer than cord. It can be brushed it out for a pretty wavy fringe.

Macrame string: is the soft, single-strand twisted string. It’s much softer than macrame rope, and creates smaller, tighter knots. It’s also much more prone to expansion and uneven thickness. It brushes out to make a beautiful fringe.

More Ideas for Leftover Beads

Another great project you can make with any leftover beads is this pretty wood bead garland!

I use it on our Christmas tree with other boho projects like these wood ornaments, tassel ornaments, and macrame trees.

But these ideas actually all stand on their own outside of the holidays for home decor, and they’re fun and easy to make.

I know everyone is making the macrame plant hangers right now, but I really love this beaded take on it!

You could even go the extra mile and paint or dye the beads to match your decor. But I’m kind of feeling the raw wood vibe.

And now it’s hanging in the kiddo’s bathroom and the space is one step closer to actually being complete! xoxo

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. This means that I receive a small commission should you make a purchase via one of these links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you as always for your support!

Make a Beaded DIY Plant Hanger

Make a DIY plant hanger! This beginner-friendly project comes together in an afternoon and will leave you with a fresh piece of home decor.

And I’m not just saying that because I’m a major plant lady!

You don’t even have to hang a plant in it – this beaded hanger would look awesome holding a pretty pot, or even a big dish filled with trinkets.

Before you dive in, check out our list of low-light indoor plants that are super easy to take care of! Perfect for filling a hanging planter.

And be sure to sign up below for my VIP group. I send these folks more of my very best DIY projects and home ideas.

step 3 – creating the basket

Now that most of the decorative steps are complete, it’s time to form the basket that will hold the flower pot. Take 2 individual cords from just below the last Square Knot you made and 2 cords from just below an adjacent Square Knot, and connect them to form a Square Knot Sennit, as shown in photo below. Do this around the circumference of the pot, making a total of 4 sennits.

About 6″ – 8″ below the sennits, gather the ropes together and create a Wrapped Knot. You can trim the tassel to any desired length.

You are now finished with this macramé plant hanger, but there are so many options for more. Imagine how cute it would be with brightly colored beads and a matching flower pot! Just be sure to send me photos; I’d love to see your creations.

The biggest compliment is a little share – please pin the photo below!