
How to Create a Macrame Wall Hanging
Transform simple cotton cord into a beautiful, textured piece of bohemian-style wall art. This guide walks you through the foundational knots needed to build a professional-looking tapestry from scratch.

Cut and measure your cord
15 minutesMeasure and cut your cotton cord into equal lengths, typically 8 to 10 feet long depending on your desired length.
Having consistent lengths is crucial for a balanced design. Use your measuring tape to ensure every strand is identical before beginning the attachment process.
Cut a few extra strands in case you make a mistake during the knotting process.

Attach cords using Lark's Head knots
20 minutesFold each cord in half and loop it over the wooden dowel using a Lark's Head knot.
Pass the loop over the dowel, then pull the two loose ends through the loop to secure it. Repeat this for all your prepared strands until the dowel is evenly covered.
Space your knots evenly across the dowel to ensure the weight of the piece is distributed correctly.

Tie rows of Square Knots
45 minutesCreate a pattern by tying rows of Square Knots across your hanging strands.
The square knot is the backbone of macrame. Take four strands, cross the left over the center two, then the right over the left, and pull tight to complete the first half of the knot.
Keep your tension consistent so the knots look uniform across the row.

Create a V-shape design
20 minutesStagger your square knots in successive rows to form a triangular or V-shaped pattern.
By leaving out the two outermost strands in each subsequent row, you naturally create a tapering effect. This adds visual interest and a professional look to your piece.
Count your strands carefully before starting a new row to maintain the symmetry of your V-shape.

Trim the fringe
10 minutesUse your scissors to cut the excess cord at the bottom into a straight line or a V-shape.
Lay your work flat on a table to ensure the fringe is level. Cut slowly, checking the alignment frequently to avoid accidental unevenness.
Be careful when using sharp scissors to trim cord ends.
Place a piece of masking tape on the cord where you want to cut for a perfectly straight line.

Brush the tassels
10 minutesUse a fine-tooth comb to gently brush out the ends of the fringe for a soft, fluffy appearance.
Brushing separates the individual cotton fibers, creating a voluminous look. Start from the bottom and work your way up to avoid tangles.
If the fringe is stubborn, use a light mist of water to help the fibers relax before combing.
Pro Tips
- โAlways use 100% cotton cord as it holds knots better than synthetic blends.
- โWork on a flat surface or use a garment rack to keep the dowel steady while you knot.
- โTake a break every 30 minutes to prevent hand fatigue and ensure your knots remain tight.
- โPractice your knots on scrap cord before starting your actual project to get a feel for the tension.