Macramé is a flexible craft that uses knots to make decorative items. If you are a complete beginner, you don’t need to start with large wall hangings or other complicated patterns. Instead, smaller projects are best you allow you to learn the basic knots, plus they use less cord and take less time to finish.
What Makes a Good Beginner Macramé Project?
A suitable project for a beginner hobbyist should:
- Only use one or two types of knot
- Use a manageable amount of cord
- Have a simple, repeated pattern
- Be small enough to finish quickly
- Still have a good result if the you make mistakes
Basic knots such as the square knot, spiral knot, and lark’s head are enough for getting you started with a beginner project.
Keyring
A keyring is one of the quickest macramé projects to try.
You normally need:
- Macramé cord
- A keyring or clasp
- Scissors
- A comb, if you want a fringed finish
You can create a simple design using square knots or spiral knots. Because the project is small, it’s useful for practising tension without wasting much material.
Plant Hanger
A basic plant hanger is a popular beginner project; it usually combines several lengths of cord with repeated knots to form a holder around a plant pot.
Start with a small, lightweight pot and a simple pattern. Check that every section is secure before you try to hang it.
Plant hangers are larger than keyrings but still provide a manageable introduction to practical macramé.
Coaster
A coaster is a useful flat project that can help you to practise creating even rows.
Some designs use repeated square knots, while circular coasters may involve more shaping. A simple square or rectangular coaster is usually the easiest place to begin.
Cotton cord works well because it’s soft and easy to handle.
Bookmark
A bookmark requires only a small amount of cord and can be completed fairly quickly.
You can make one using a narrow line of square knots, spiral knots, or a simple braided design. Add a fringe or bead at the end if you want a more decorative finish.
Wall Hanging
A small wall hanging is much easier than a large decorative piece.
Use a short wooden dowel, stick or ring and create a straightforward repeated pattern beneath it. You can finish the bottom with a simple fringe rather than trying to add complicated, more advanced sections.
Choose a small design so that you can practise arranging knots without committing to a long project.
Jar or Bottle Cover
A simple macramé cover can be tied around a clean jar, bottle or small plant pot.
The container helps to support the shape whilst you work. A basic net-style pattern can be created using repeated knots around the outside.
This can be used as a decorative holder for pens, craft tools or small items.
Bracelet
A bracelet is another small project that only uses a little cord.
Simple bracelets may be made with square knots, alternating knots or a spiral pattern. You can add beads or a fastening once you are comfortable with the basic design.
Make sure the finished bracelet is comfortable and not tied too tightly.
Feather or Leaf
Macramé feathers are made by knotting short pieces of cord around a central strand, then brushing and trimming the fibres into shape.
The trimming doesn’t have to be perfect, so this can be an enjoyable decorative project for beginners. A comb or stiff brush helps separate the fibres.
Which Macramé Project Should You Try First?
A keyring, bookmark or bracelet is usually the easiest starting point, as these projects are small and inexpensive.
Once you’re comfortable making consistent knots, you can move on to a plant hanger or a small wall hanging.
As a general rule, use a project that uses a limited number of knots and materials. Finishing one simple item will usually teach you more than beginning an ambitious design that becomes frustrating and causes you to give up.
Happy Macramé!