Why Macramé?

Macramé wall hangings are one of the most rewarding DIY home projects you can tackle. They add warmth, texture, and a handcrafted feel to any wall — and they require no special equipment or prior experience. With just a few basic knots and an afternoon of your time, you can create something genuinely beautiful and personal.

What You'll Need

  • 100% natural cotton macramé cord (3mm thickness is ideal for beginners)
  • A wooden dowel rod (30–40cm wide)
  • Scissors
  • A measuring tape
  • A comb or pet brush (for fringing)
  • Optional: a small piece of tape to prevent cord fraying

You can find macramé cord and dowels at craft stores or online. Natural, undyed cotton is the most forgiving and looks beautiful in any home.

Cutting Your Cord

For a wall hanging approximately 30cm wide and 50cm long, you'll need:

  • 16 lengths of cord, each cut to 2 metres (they'll be folded in half, giving 32 working strands)

A general rule: cut your cord at four times the desired finished length, then add extra for the folding and any decorative fringe at the bottom.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Attach cords to the dowel: Fold each cord in half and attach it to the dowel using a lark's head knot. Simply fold the cord, push the loop over the dowel from front to back, then pull both tail ends through the loop and tighten.
  2. Create square knots: Working in groups of four strands, tie a series of square knots across the width. To tie a square knot: take the left outer cord over the two middle cords, then under the right outer cord. Then bring the right outer cord under the two middle cords and up through the loop on the left. Pull gently to tighten. Repeat in reverse to complete the square knot.
  3. Alternate your knots: On the next row, shift your groupings by two strands so the knots sit between the ones above. This creates the classic diamond pattern seen in most macramé.
  4. Repeat for depth: Continue alternating rows until your piece reaches the desired length. Four to six rows of alternating knots creates a solid, textured body.
  5. Create the fringe: Leave the remaining cord loose at the bottom. Trim to your desired length at an angle or in a V-shape for visual interest.
  6. Brush out the fringe: Use a comb or pet brush to gently unravel and brush the bottom fringe. This creates a soft, feathery finish that's the hallmark of modern macramé.
  7. Hang and style: Tie a length of cord to each end of the dowel and hang. Adjust any uneven strands and trim if needed.

Tips for a Great Result

  • Keep your tension consistent — too loose and the piece will look sloppy, too tight and it won't drape naturally.
  • Work on a flat surface or hang the dowel at eye level from a hook while you work.
  • Don't worry about perfection — slight variations actually give handmade pieces their charm.

Styling Your Wall Hanging

Macramé works beautifully above a bed as a headboard alternative, in a reading nook, or on an empty hallway wall. Pair it with potted trailing plants, wooden shelves, and warm lighting for a fully cohesive, natural look. Once you've mastered the basics, experiment with beads, feathers, or coloured cord for a more personalised piece.