10 Different Types Of Macrame Knots

knowing the basics will give you a strong foundation for endless creative projects. Today, we'll cover ten essential macrame knots and walk you through how to tie each one using macrame cord.

1. Lark's Head Knot

Purpose: this is Used to attach cords to a dowel, ring, or another type of anchor.

Steps:

• Fold your macrame cord in half to create a loop.

• Place the loop over your dowel or ring.

• Pull the two loose ends through the loop.

• Tighten the knot to secure it in place.

2. Square Knot

Purpose: One of the most versatile knots for patterns, texture, and structure.

Steps:

• Start with four cords: two working cords on the outside and two filler cords in the centre.

• Cross the left working cord over the two filler cords and under the right working cord.

• Take the right working cord under the filler cords and pull it through the loop on the left side.

• Pull both working cords to tighten the knot.

• Reverse the process: cross the right working cord over the fillers, then pull the left cord through the loop on the right.

• Tighten. You've made one full square knot.

3. Half Hitch Knot

Purpose: Great for creating spiral patterns and texture.

Steps:

• Choose a holding cord (this stays in place) and a working cord.

• Pass the working cord over and around the holding cord.

• Pull the working cord through the loop created.

• Tighten the knot by sliding it up the holding cord.

• Repeat for a spiral effect.

4. Double Half Hitch Knot

Purpose: Often used to create horizontal, diagonal, or curved lines in designs.

Steps:

• Choose a holding cord and a working cord.

• Pass the working cord over and around the holding cord, creating a loop.

• Pull the working cord through the loop and tighten.

• Repeat the same motion once more to make a double knot.

5. Gathering Knot (Wrapping Knot)

Purpose: Perfect for finishing off projects and creating neat bundles.

Steps:

• Cut a separate piece of cord (about 12 inches long).

• Lay this cord along the section you want to wrap, create a looped end pointing downward.

• Begin wrapping the long end of the cord tightly around all the other cords, working downward.

• Once you've wrapped enough, thread the end of the wrapping cord through the loop at the bottom.

• Pull the top end of the wrapping cord (which you left sticking out) to tuck the loop and the end inside the wrapped section.

• Trim any excess.

Once you've mastered the basics, here are five more knot styles to expand your macrame skills!

6. Alternating Square Knots

Purpose: Used to create net-like patterns and large, flexible surfaces.

Steps:

• Make two square knots side by side as described above.

• Separate the cords — use two from each neighbouring knot to form a new group of four.

• Tie another square knot using this new group.

• Repeat for the entire row.

• Keep alternating the pattern for as many rows as needed

7. Spiral Knot (Half Square Knot Repeats)

Purpose: Great for plant hangers and creating twisted rope textures.

Steps:

• Start with four cords: two working cords on the outside and two filler cords in the centre.

• Perform a half square knot (the second to fourth bullet point of the Square Knot guide).

• Repeat the same half square knot over and over without switching sides.

• As you tie, the knots will naturally twist into a spiral shape.

8. Josephine Knot

Purpose: A decorative and stylish knot perfect for jewellery or detailed wall hangings.

Steps:

• Form a loop with the working cord, leaving the working end on top.

• Weave the end around and under the loop.

• Thread the end over and under the parts of the knot as needed to shape a flat figure-eight design.

• Adjust the loops and tighten gently until the shape is symmetrical.

9. Berry Knot

Purpose: Adds a pop of texture and dimension, often used as a design highlight.

Steps:

• Make 3-5 square knots in a vertical line.

• Take the two working cords and pass them up behind the square knot column.

• Thread the working cords through the loop at the base of the first square knot.

• Pull tight to create a "berry" shape.

10. Overhand Knot

Purpose: Simple knot used for securing the ends of cords or adding decorative finishing touches.

Steps:

• Make a loop with the end of the cord.

• Pass the cord end through the loop.

• Pull tight to secure the knot.

• You can also string beads onto the cord before tying for extra detail.

And there you have it, 10 essential macrame knots to build your confidence and creativity. Practice these with scrap macrame cord and soon you'll be ready to design your own pieces like a pro. Happy knotting.