If you think macramé is just wall hangings and plant holders, prepare to have your mind gently blown. This ancient knotting craft has had a serious renaissance in recent years — and for good reason. It's tactile, meditative, endlessly creative, and the things you can make with it range from the purely decorative to the genuinely practical.
Let's take a tour through the wonderful world of macramé makes, shall we?
The Classics: Wall Hangings
We might as well start here, because wall hangings are probably what most people picture when they hear the word macramé. And honestly? They're classics for a reason.
A macramé wall hanging can be as simple as a few rows of square knots on a wooden dowel, or as elaborate as a floor-length statement piece with fringing, beads, feathers, and intricate patterns. They add texture and warmth to a room in a way that a print or painting simply can't — there's something about the depth of knotted fibre that just feels cosy and alive.
They're also a brilliant starting point if you're new to macramé, because you can begin small and build up your skills as you go.
Plant Hangers: The Gateway Make
Ask any macramé enthusiast how they got started, and there's a good chance they'll say: a plant hanger. They're quick to make, satisfying to finish, and genuinely useful — especially if you're short on shelf space but long on houseplants (a very relatable situation).
The basic structure is simple: a few lengths of cord, some knots, and a ring at the top. But from there, you can get creative with spiral knots, gathering knots, added beads, or even dyeing your cord for a pop of colour. One plant hanger leads to another, and before you know it, every room in your house has one.
Home Décor: Beyond the Walls
Once you've got the basics down, the home décor possibilities really open up. Here are just a few things people make:
- Table runners — A macramé table runner adds instant boho charm to a dining table or sideboard. Great for weddings and events too.
- Cushion covers — Combine macramé knotting with a simple fabric backing for a textured cushion that looks like it came from a boutique.
- Lampshades — Yes, really! Knotted cord over a wire frame creates a beautiful, diffused light effect.
- Mirror frames — A round mirror surrounded by macramé fringing is a perennial favourite on Pinterest for good reason.
- Curtains and room dividers — Open-weave macramé panels let light through while adding privacy and texture. Stunning in a boho or Scandi-inspired space.
Wearables: Yes, You Can Wear It
Macramé fashion had its heyday in the 1970s, but it never really went away — and right now it's very much back in style. With finer cords and a bit of patience, you can make:
- Bracelets and friendship bands — A great entry point for wearable macramé. Simple patterns, quick results, and endlessly giftable.
- Necklaces and pendants — Knotted cord around a stone or bead makes for a beautiful, artisan-feel piece of jewellery.
- Bags and totes — A macramé bag is a proper project, but the result is a genuinely usable, eye-catching accessory.
- Belts — Knotted belts are having a real moment in fashion right now. Chunky, textural, and surprisingly straightforward to make.
Practical Makes for Around the Home
Macramé isn't just pretty — it's practical too. Some of the most useful things you can make include:
- Fruit and vegetable hammocks — Hang your avocados and bananas in style. It actually works brilliantly for keeping produce aired and accessible.
- Bottle holders — A knotted holder for a wine bottle or water bottle is a lovely handmade gift.
- Key rings and bag charms — Small, quick, and a great way to use up cord scraps.
- Pet accessories — Cat toys, dog leads, and even pet hammocks are all within reach once you've got your knots sorted.
Seasonal and Celebratory Makes
Macramé lends itself beautifully to seasonal projects too. Think macramé Christmas ornaments, advent calendar pockets, Easter egg holders, or wedding arch decorations. There's something about the natural, earthy texture of cord that works across so many different aesthetics — from rustic to minimalist to maximalist.
So, Where Do You Start?
The beauty of macramé is that you really don't need much to get going. A length of cotton cord, a wooden dowel or ring, and a few basic knots (the square knot and the lark's head knot will take you a very long way) are all you need to begin.
Start with something small — a plant hanger or a simple wall hanging — and let your curiosity lead you from there. The macramé community is wonderfully welcoming, and there's a whole world of patterns, tutorials, and inspiration waiting for you.
We'd love to see what you make! Share your macramé projects with us — whether it's your very first plant hanger or an ambitious room divider, we're here for all of it. 🪢