Unlock the Secrets of Macrame: Learn the Essential Starting Knot
You don’t need many tools to get started with Macrame but I do recommend investing in a good pair of sharp scissors so you won’t have any issues with cutting your cords.
To discover all my favorite Macrame tools and where to buy them, make sure to check out my handy Tools & Supplies Shopping Guide!
Scissors are an important tool and well worth it to invest in. You’ll be using scissors a lot when working on projects and you’ll really want a sharp pair to make life easier. I recommend using Fiskar Amplify Scissors.
To help you measure out your cords, I recommend getting a self-lock tape measure. I recommend using the Komelon 25-foot self-lock Power tape.
BEGINNER TIP: I usually only cut one cord with the help of a measuring tape and use that one as my guide for the next cords I need to cut.
Often recommended by our lovely group members, rotary cutters are ideal for shaping feathers or cutting your fringe more easily. I recommend getting the Fiskars Crafts Rotary Cutter for the best results.
When you’re working on feathers or a Mandala wall hanging and your fringe becomes floppy, try using some stiffening spray to keep them in place. I recommend this Stiffen-Quick Fabric Stiffening Spray by Aleene.
Looking to dye your cords? You can use RIT dye to dip-dye your cords or go for natural ingredients such as beets, avocado, or coffee. Here’s a great Youtube video that shows you which veggies and fruit you can use for this.
Below are four basic knots to get you started. You can make so many things with just these basic knots under your belt. Keychains, bookmarks, placemats, macrame bracelets, macrame knot wall hangings, plant and jar hangers, etc.
So first we need to go grab some Macrame cord. I like this cording. But Amazon has TONS of options for good macrame cording. And don’t forget that you can get all sorts of colors too. Read the reviews and find what works for you.
Then, we need to get a hoop, a stick or a ring. Something like this to attach your cord to. Let’s get started with our knots …
In most cases, your Macrame cord needs to roughly be about four times the length of your project. When your cord is folded in half with a Lark’s Head Knot to create two cords, then go for eight times the length.
For more in-depth info and tips check out my Complete Guide on How to Estimate Macrame Cord Lengths.
When you’re just starting out with Macrame, I recommend following a tutorial first so you get a better feel of how much length is needed for each type of project.
The most frequently asked question from our Macrame for Beginners Facebook Group members is how to get started with Macrame. And I totally understand why!
There is so much information out there that it makes many beginners feel very overwhelmed and unable to start with their first project.
Luckily, there is no need to feel this way because it’s easy to get started with Macrame! Here’s why:
1 – Most beautiful Macrame projects you see online are created with just three basic knots, which are super easy to learn!
2 – Once you know the basic knots, you can create anything your heart desires: wall hangings, plant hangers, bags, Christmas decorations, earrings, keychains, and more!
3 – You don’t need anything but Macrame cords to get started, yay!
I’m confident that this extensive blog post will help you start successfully with Macrame. Keep reading and discover my best tip to instantly make your beginner projects look professional and ready to sell on Etsy!
Now, let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked questions that all beginners have, and let me show you which Macrame cords I recommend for beginners!
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