In need of a new hobby? Here's your guide on macramé
There’s something magical about taking a few simple cords and transforming them into something both functional and beautiful with just your hands. That’s why I fell in love with macramé. This ancient craft, which originated with 13th-century Arabic weavers, is all about tying knots to create patterns and designs. Over the centuries, it has been used to make everything from intricate wall hangings, to practical items like hammocks and bags.
I first discovered macramé during one of the busiest times of my life. I was juggling a full-time job and raising two young daughters, constantly moving from one responsibility to the next with barely a moment to catch my breath. I craved something that was just for me—something creative, calming, and uncomplicated. I discovered macramé through a friend, and it felt like a lightbulb moment.
With just some basic cord and a little time after the girls went to bed, I found myself knotting away. At first, it was just a simple wall hanging, but the sense of accomplishment I felt was incredible. I quickly realised that macramé was more than just a craft—it was a way to carve out moments of mindfulness and self-expression in my otherwise extremely busy days.
It's so easy to get started with macramé. You don’t need expensive tools or a dedicated workspace. You just need your hands, some cords, and a bit of imagination. It’s also forgiving—you can make mistakes, undo knots, and try again.
Whether you’re making a boho-inspired plant hanger, a statement wall piece, or even jewellery, there’s something for everyone with macramé. You don’t need perfection to create something beautiful—just a willingness to experiment and have fun.
What is macramé?
At its core, macramé is a textile craft that uses knots rather than weaving or knitting to create patterns and shapes. The technique relies on a series of specific knots to build intricate designs.
Macramé can range from simple, minimalist designs to elaborate, multi-layered works of art. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to work on small projects like keychains or large-scale creations like wall hangings. While it has roots in ancient cultures, macramé saw a resurgence in the 1970s during the bohemian movement and is now enjoying another revival, thanks to the modern embrace of craft and handmade culture and home decor trends.
What makes macramé unique is its simplicity—no needles or machines are required, just cord, your hands, and a bit of creativity.
What you need to do macramé
Macramé cord
Scissors
Measuring tape
A dowel, driftwood or wooden ring(used to anchor your project)
How to do macramé
Choose Your Project: Start with a beginner-friendly design. (Look for the free patterns on my website www.isabellastrambio.com/mindful-macrame-book)
Cut Your Cord: Measure and cut your cords based on your project’s instructions
Anchor Your Cord: Attach your cord to a wooden dowel using a Lark’s head knot. This will secure the project. (Find free step-by-step macrame knot tutorials on my website www.isabellastrambio.com/macrame-for-beginners)
Learn Basic Knots: Practice fundamental knots like the Square knot and Half-hitch knot. These are the foundation of most designs.
Follow Your Pattern: Use your chosen design as a guide, follow the step-by-step and knot the cords to form the pattern.
Finish Your Project: Once you’ve completed the design, trim any excess cord.
Show Off Your Work: Hang it up or gift it to a friend!
Macramé is as simple or as intricate as you want it to be. So grab some cord, find a quiet spot, and let the magic of macramé take over.
Isabella's book Mindful Macrame: Create, Journal and Unwind Through Meditative Knotting is on sale now. Follow Isabella on Instagram here.
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