DIY Macrame Hanging Fruit Basket: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hey there, fellow craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, and I’m thrilled to share a project that beautifully blends functionality with artistic flair – a DIY macrame hanging fruit basket. This versatile piece adds a touch of handmade charm to your kitchen or living space, whether you use it for its intended purpose or as a unique plant hanger.

Gathering Your Macrame Supplies

Before we dive into the knots, let’s gather everything we need. Here’s your supply list:

3mm 3-strand twisted cotton rope:
- 8 pieces @ approx. 10.5 feet long (126 inches) for the main working cords
- 1 piece @ approx. 33 inches long for the top wrapping knot
- 16 pieces @ approx. 67 inches long for the basket part
- 1 piece @ approx. 50 inches long for the bottom wrapping knot
2 x 8-inch wooden rings
Sharp scissors

Pro-tip: Using high-quality cotton rope not only ensures durability but also enhances the overall look of your finished basket.

Crafting Your Macrame Fruit Basket: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Creating the Braided Hanger

Forming the braid: Take your 8 working cords, fold them in half, and determine the length of your braid. Tie a temporary knot to mark the starting point, and secure the cords to your work surface.
Braiding technique: Divide the cords into four sections, with two cords per section. Now, cross the second section over the first (right to left), the fourth over the third (right to left), and finally, the second over the third (left to right). Repeat this pattern until you reach your desired braid length.
Securing the loop: Untie the temporary knot, fold the braid in half, and tie a wrapping knot using the 33-inch cord to secure the loop at the base of the braid.

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Step 2: Crafting the Basket Arms

Square knot and switch: Isolate four strands and tie a square knot approximately an inch below the wrapping knot. Bring the working cords behind the center cords, switch the center cords to the outside, and tie another square knot about three inches down – this is your switch knot.
Repeating the pattern: Tie four more switch knots down the arm, maintaining even spacing of about three inches. Replicate this process for the remaining three arms.

Step 3: Integrating the First Wooden Ring

Double half hitch knots: Bring the cords inside the first wooden ring. Attach each arm to the ring using double half hitch knots, ensuring the cords cross in the same manner as the switch knots. Space the arms evenly around the ring.

Step 4: Adding Cords to the Ring

Cow hitch knot: Fold one of the 67-inch cords in half and attach it to the wooden ring using a cow hitch knot.
Wrapping the ring: Wrap the right cord in front of and over the ring, pulling the end through the loop. Repeat with the left cord in the opposite direction.
Attaching remaining cords: Repeat this process with the remaining 15 cords, attaching four cords in each section between the arms, evenly spaced.

Step 5: Creating the Basket Body

Alternating switch knots: Tie three rows of alternating switch knots, starting about an inch below the ring. This creates the body of your basket.

Step 6: Attaching the Second Ring

Securing the base: Attach all cords to the second wooden ring using double half hitch knots, positioning it about an inch below the last row of knots.

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Step 7: The Bottom Wrapping Knot

Finalizing the basket: Gather all cords and tie a wrapping knot using the 50-inch cord, wrapping it around eight times.
Tightening the base: Pull each cord through the wrapping knot to tighten the basket’s base, ensuring the knot remains centered.

Step 8: Finishing Touches

Creating the fringe: Cut the fringe about 4-5 inches below the bottom wrapping knot. Unravel the fringe for a softer look.

Congratulations!

You’ve crafted your very own macrame hanging fruit basket! Experiment with different color combinations and rope thicknesses to personalize your creation. Share your beautiful work and tag Robert Kline Art on social media – I can’t wait to see your masterpiece!