Are you looking for a fun way to spruce up your living space? Then learn how to make macrame plant hangers!
These beautiful and functional pieces of decor are easy to make and add a touch of bohemian flair to any room.
Plus, macrame has to be one of the most budget-friendly crafting projects out there. All you need is some rope and some simple household tools to create this winding wonder.
In this DIY tutorial, you’ll learn how to make macrame plant hangers step-by-step. With a little dexterity, you can create your own knotted plant hangers to showcase your lush greenery.
So let’s get started and show you how to make macrame plant hangers!
What is Macrame?
Macrame is a creative art form that involves knotting cords or ropes to create intricate, eye-catching patterns and designs.
Originating from the 13th century, this amazing craft has stood the test of time and continues to captivate crafters with its boho-chic aesthetic.
Historically this craft was mostly used for belts, bags, and clothing items, but these days you’ll see it used as wall hangings, plant holders, and more. There’s really no limit on what you can make by mastering a few basic knots.
How to Make Macrame Plant Hangers
Alright, let’s move on to the question at hand: how to make macrame plant hangers. If you’re starting out in the macrame world, this is a great first-time project.
You don’t need any special tools, and as long as you can tie your shoelaces in a knot, you’re ready to tackle this intricate art form. If you’re intimidated by the complex knots, don’t fret. Even the most complicated macrame uses just simple loops.
Below, you’ll learn how to make the simplest version of a macrame plant hanger, as well as some knot variations to make it more intricate.
We encourage you to try this basic version before letting your creative juices flow. This way, you can master the essential components which will make your life easier later on.
Step 1: Gather the Materials
Before you start knotting away, ensure you have all the required materials for your macrame plant hanger so you don’t have to take a last-minute trip to the crafting store.
What You’ll Need
Macrame cord. This is the most important material for obvious reasons. Skip to the next section to learn about the best materials for macrame cord.
Scissors. You’ll need something to cut the cord with.
Measuring tape. It may be tempting to eyeball it, but taking exact measurements of your cord will save you hassle in the long run. Trust us on this one.
Small plant pot. You can use any pot you have around, but there’s something about using a rustic terracotta pot that adds to the boho-chic aesthetic.
Wooden or metal ring. This item is technically optional, but it makes your life a lot easier when starting a macrame project.
Best Macrame Cord
When it comes to finding the best cord for macrame, there really are endless options. You can use varying sizes and materials like cotton, jute, linen, hemp, wool, and even leather.
Whichever material you use, make sure it’s high quality and tough. You want your new macrame plant hanger to stand the test of time without fraying or unraveling.
While you want your cord to be durable, it’s essential to make sure it’s easy to manipulate since you’ll be weaving it in and out to create tight knots.
Cotton cord is one of the most popular choices among macrame enthusiasts. This eco-friendly option provides a soft and smooth texture, making it perfect for crafting intricate knots and designs. It also won’t stretch over time, so you can add years to your project.
Another great option is nylon cord, which offers incredible strength and resistance to fraying. This versatile material is perfect for outdoor macrame plant hangers since it can withstand various weather conditions.
Step 2: Measure and Cut Cords
Now that you have your cord, it’s time to start cutting it into the appropriate lengths.
For a simple macrame plant hanger, you’ll need five long pieces of rope measured 12.5 feet long. This might seem quite lengthy, but you’ll be surprised how much the cord shortens after you tie it into knots.
Step 3: Fasten Cord to Ring
Gather the cord together so everything is aligned, then insert the ring and slide it through the bunched cord until it reaches the center.
Take each end of the gathered cord and tie a large knot around the ring.
Step 4: Start Knotting
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Before you start knotting, snag a piece of duct tape to hold down the hoop. This simple hack will make it a lot easier to tie the rope without your project moving around too much.
Spread out the cord so that there are ten strands splayed, then group them into pairs so you have a total of five.
You’ll want to knot each pair around 20 inches below the top knot, then measure another 4 inches and knot the alternate ropes.
If you have a large planter, add another row of knots, but if you’re using a short pot, let’s wrap it up here. Measure 2 inches down from your last set of knots, then tie a large knot with all the strands together.
And there you have it! This design is the more simple way to create a macrame plant hanger. You can either stop now and move on to Step 5, or if you’re feeling creative, untie a couple of rows of the basic knots and replace them with some variations below.
Different Types of Knots
There are so many types of macrame knots that create intricate beauty in your project it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Here, we’ll break down the most common knots you need to know.
Larks Head Knot
This knot is the most common way to start a macrame project. It attaches the cord to the hoop while creating a stylish accent.
To create a Larks Head knot, take your cord and fold it in half. Place the loop at the back of the ring, then bring the cords through the middle of the loop.
Pull until taut, and that’s it! You now have the perfect starter knot to begin the macrame plant hanger of your dreams.
Square Knot
To create a square knot, you need to create two Larks Head knots first and position them beside each other on the ring. Take the outer left cord and go over the middle and under the outer right cord.
Then, take the right cord and go under the middle and over the left and pull until taut.
After that, repeat the process backward. Starting with the right cord, go over the middle and under the left, then pull the left cord under the middle and over the right.
Tighten the cords and keep repeating to create a row of square knots.
Alternating Square Knot
You can also combine two sets of square knots for a wider, more intricate pattern. Start with four Larks Head knots and place them beside each other on the ring so there are eight cords total.
With the four cords on the furthest left, create a square knot according to the instructions above, then repeat the process with the four cords on the furthest right.
Then, join the separate knots by taking the four cords in the middle, leaving two on the right and two on the left, and creating a square knot using the outermost cords. Repeat the entire process to create a descending, flat pattern for your macrame plant hanger.
Spiral Knot
Now, let’s tackle the infamous spiral knot that creates that signature winding design. Start with two Larks Head knots, and slide them close beside each other.
Then, make a half-square knot, which is a shorter version of the square knot. Gather the outer cords and go over the middle and under the right, then take the right cord and go under the middle and over the left.
After, rather than changing the order of the cords in the next knot, keep repeating this process. You’ll notice that the pattern will start to form a spiral appearance. Continue this process until it’s reached the desired length for your macrame plant hanger.
Double Half Hitch Knot
Try the double half hitch knot for a more flowy, showy pattern. First, start with three Larks Head Knots. Take the cord on the furthest left and go over the cord next to it.
Bring it back around through the loop and pull it taut. Repeat this technique once more, then alternate cords, using the next cord with the one to its right.
The furthest left cord will start to have knots forming down its body as it descends in a diagonal pattern. Continue the process until you reach the furthest right cord, then change directions to create a rounded bend.
Half-Hitch Knot
A half-hitch knot is similar to a spiral knot, but you only need two cords to create it. Begin with a Larks Head knot, then take the left cord and go over the right and through the loop and pull it taut. Keep repeating the same technique until a spiral shape takes form.
If you need more guidance tackling one of these knots for your macrame plant hanger, check out this easy-to-follow Youtube tutorial.
Step 5: Finish With Fringe
Once you’re finished with your macrame masterpiece, it’s time to add the finishing touch: fringe!
Measure 6-8 inches below the last knot, then trim the ends. Unravel the cords with your fingers until the edges are soft and wispy. You can either leave them as is or comb out the edges with a wire brush to make them more pronounced and fluffy.
Step 6: Hang Your Macrame Creation
Now that you have your finished macrame creation, it’s time to hang it!
You can either suspend your macrame plant hanger from the ceiling or the wall as long as you find a secure spot. If you’re hanging your plant from the ceiling, we recommend using a stud finder to locate a joist for twisting your hook into.
Find a hook screw that can support the weight of your hanging plant. For a small plant, you can get away with lightweight hardware like the TUPARKA hook, but if you’re trying to hang a larger plant, consider investing in a more heavy-duty option like the OOTSR hook.
How to Make Macrame Plant Hangers: Summed Up
See, learning how to make macrame plant hangers isn’t so hard! With just a handful of supplies, you can create this affordable DIY project that will transform any plain living space into a bohemian plant paradise.
Now that you know how to make macrame plant hangers, check out our DIY page to get inspired on your next project.