Hey there, fellow craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, ready to guide you on a creative journey. Today, we’re diving into the world of macrame with a stunning and surprisingly easy DIY project: a large macrame wall hanging.
This project is perfect for adding a touch of boho chic to your living space, and the best part is, it’s beginner-friendly. I’ll walk you through each step, sharing tips and tricks I’ve learned from my years of experience. So, gather your supplies, let’s knot our way to a gorgeous macrame masterpiece!
Materials You’ll Need:
- Macrame Cord: Approximately 404 feet of 4mm three-strand twisted cotton rope (see cut list below). I highly recommend this type of cord for its durability and the beautiful fringe it creates.
- Wooden Dowel: A 48-inch long wooden dowel with a 3/4-inch diameter.
- Scissors: A sharp pair of scissors is crucial for clean cuts, especially when creating the fringe.
- Working Space: A spacious work area where you can hang your dowel and comfortably maneuver the cords. I personally use a simple clothing rack from IKEA – it’s affordable and gets the job done.
Macrame Rope Cut List:
- 4 pieces @ 70 inches long (beginning section)
- 2 pieces @ 64 inches long (filler cords for double half hitch knots)
- 8 pieces @ 128 inches long (alternating square knot bands)
- 24 pieces @ 40 inches long (first fringe layer)
- 3 pieces @ 20 inches long (rya knot)
- 46 pieces @ 34 inches long (second fringe layer)
- 2 pieces @ 47 inches long (outer fringe hangers)
- 46 pieces @ 16 inches long (outer fringe)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Creating the Centerpiece
- Begin by folding the four 70-inch cords in half. Secure them to the dowel using lark’s head knots.
- Position the two center cords close together, with the outer cords about four inches apart on either side.
- Tie a square knot with the center cords directly beneath the lark’s head knots.
- Create two more square knots, one on each side, approximately four inches below the first square knot.
- Tie the final square knot in the center, about four inches below the previous two knots.
Step 2: Adding the First Fringe Layer
- Incorporate the 24 pieces of 40-inch fringe cords.
- Attach seven pieces to each of the upper sections and five pieces to each of the lower sections.
Step 3: A Row of Double Half Hitch Knots
- Secure one of the 64-inch cords to each side using lark’s head knots.
- Adjust the cords so the outer cord is aligned with the fringe, while the inner cord (filler cord) remains significantly longer.
- Tie a row of double half hitch knots, using the longer cord as your filler.
- For the final double half hitch knot, cross the filler cords and use the left filler cord as your working cord.
Step 4: Alternating Square Knot Bands
- Attach four of the 128-inch cords on both sides by folding them in half and using lark’s head knots to secure them.
- Create 23 rows of alternating square knots on each band.
- Start with two square knots, followed by one on the next row, then two again, and repeat this pattern.
Step 5: Crafting the Diamond
- Using the cords from the added fringe, create a diamond shape in the center section.
- Grab the left center cord and tie three double half hitch knots, angling downwards and to the left. Repeat on the right side, angling to the right.
- Continue with three more double half hitch knots on each side, mirroring the previous direction.
- Cross the filler cords and tie the final double half hitch knot in the center, using the right filler cord as your working cord.
Step 6: Connecting the Square Knot Bands
- Bring the alternating square knot bands together.
- Tie a square knot using the two right cords from the left band and the two left cords from the right band.
- Tie square knots between the existing knots on each side, skipping the outermost two cords.
- Tie two more square knots, connecting the previously tied knots to the center knot.
- Finish the “V” shape with a final square knot in the middle.
Step 7: More Double Half Hitch Knots
- Using the outermost cord on the left as the filler cord, tie a row of double half hitch knots down to the bottom of the “V” shape. Repeat on the right side.
- Join the filler cords for the last double half hitch knot.
- Create another identical row of double half hitch knots.
Step 8: Adding the Second Fringe Layer
- Attach the 34-inch fringe pieces to the loops on the sides of the alternating square knot bands using lark’s head knots.
- Use two pieces per loop and one at the top under the lark’s head knot.
Step 9: Attaching the Outer Fringe Hangers
- Secure the 47-inch ropes on each side to create the outer fringe hangers.
- Attach the first rope with a lark’s head knot, approximately 9 1/2 inches away from the alternating square knot band.
- Adjust the rope so one side is about 8 inches long, while the other remains significantly longer.
- Repeat this process on the opposite side, mirroring the placement.
Step 10: Adding the Outer Fringe
- Attach 23 pieces of 16-inch fringe using lark’s head knots to both fringe hangers.
Step 11: Incorporating the Rya Knot
- Untwist the strands of the 20-inch rope, keeping them together.
- Thread the ends through the diamond shape on both sides of the center cords.
- Push the ends through the center, under the loop formed, and pull tight.
- Trim the ends to approximately three inches.
Step 12: The Finishing Touches
- Carefully untwist the fringe hanging from the sides and front. You can untwist the back fringe as well, but I chose to leave mine twisted.
- Trim the fringe to even it out, removing any excessively long strands.
Congratulations!
You’ve successfully created a stunning DIY macrame wall hanging! Now, stand back and admire your handiwork. This piece is sure to add a touch of handcrafted elegance and bohemian charm to your home.
Don’t forget to share your creation with me! Tag @RobertKlineArt on Instagram – I can’t wait to see your unique take on this project.
For more inspiring DIY projects and craft ideas, explore the rest of my website, Robert Kline Art. We have a treasure trove of creative inspiration waiting for you. Happy crafting!