Your First Macrame Project: A Simple Plant Hanger Tutorial

Ready to put your new knotting skills to the test? This easy-to-follow tutorial guides you through creating a beautiful and functional macrame plant hanger. We'll use the square knot and lark's head knot to create a charming design that’s perfect for displaying your favorite potted plants. No prior experience needed!

What You’ll Need

• Cord: Approximately 30-40 feet of macrame cord (3mm or 5mm thickness works well. Jute, cotton, or hemp are good choices.)
• Scissors
• Measuring Tape (optional)
• Pencil (optional, for marking cord)
• A small potted plant (for demonstration and the final product!)

Understanding the Knots

This project utilizes two essential macrame knots: the Lark's Head Knot and the Square Knot. Don't worry if you're unfamiliar – we're going to break them down!

The Lark's Head Knot

The Lark's Head knot is used to attach the cords to a ring or anchor point. Here's how it's done:

1. Fold the cord in half.
2. Place the folded end under the ring or anchor point.
3. Bring the two loose ends over the front of the ring and then under the loop formed.
4. Pull the loose ends tight.

The Square Knot

The Square Knot is the workhorse of many macrame projects. It's created by alternating two Half Square Knots.

1. Take the left cord and bring it over the two middle cords and under the right cord.
2. Take the right cord and bring it under the two middle cords and over the left cord.
3. Pull both cords tight. This completes one Half Square Knot.
4. Repeat the process, starting with the right cord this time. This completes the Square Knot.

Let's Get Started!

Follow these steps to create your first macrame plant hanger.

1. Cut the Cord: Cut four lengths of cord, each approximately 8-9 feet long.
2. Attach to the Ring: Using the Lark’s Head Knot, attach each of the four cords to a wooden ring. You should now have eight cords hanging from the ring.
3. The First Tier: Divide the cords into four pairs. Tie a Square Knot with each pair, approximately 4-6 inches from the ring.
4. The Second Tier: Again, divide the cords into four pairs and tie a Square Knot with each pair, approximately 6-8 inches from the previous tier.
5. The Basket: Now, we're going to create a small "basket" to hold the pot. Take two cords from one pair and two cords from an adjacent pair and tie a Square Knot. Repeat this all the way around until you have created a circle.
6. Final Tier: Tie a Square Knot directly beneath the basket you’re creating.
7. Gather and Knot: Gather all eight cords together and tie a large overhand knot at the ends. This is where you’ll place your pot!
8. Trim the Ends: Trim any excess cord to your desired length.

Tips and Troubleshooting

• Keep Tension Consistent: Try to pull each knot with even tension to create a balanced look.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Don't be discouraged if your first few knots are a little wonky. Macrame takes practice!
• Cord Choice: Different cord types will create different textures and looks. Experiment!

Congratulations!

You’re officially a macrame artist! Enjoy your new plant hanger and get ready to tackle more projects!