Beginner‑Friendly Macrame Bracelet, Materials Tips & Finishing Tricks

Natural cotton macrame bracelet on off‑white linen with beads, scissors, tape measure and dried flowers on a warm oak table

Materials

  • 4 cords of 2–3 mm cotton (see length note)
  • Clasp or button (or tie-on loop)
  • Sharp scissors, tape measure, tape or clipboard to secure cords
  • Optional: small beads

Time & difficulty

  • 45–60 minutes; easy

Knots used

  • Square knot (main)
  • Half hitch (optional for edging)
  • Gathering knot (to finish)

Cord length note

  • Use the post’s rule of thumb: cut your cord 4× the desired finished length (8× if folding) and add ~30 cm extra. Example: for an 18 cm bracelet, folded cords will be about 1.5 m each.

Step-by-step

  1. Measure: Measure wrist and add ~1–2 cm for comfort — this is your finished length.
  2. Cut & secure: Cut 4 cords (2–3 mm). Secure the top ends to a clipboard, tape, or safety pin so cords hang straight.
  3. Arrange: Spread the 4 cords so you have two center filler cords and two outer working cords.
  4. Tie square knots: Using the outer left cord as working cord, tie a square knot over the two centre filler cords and the outer right cord (left over center, right under and through; then mirror). Tighten to a consistent tension. Repeat the same square knot repeatedly down the length until you reach the finished length.
  5. Optional edging: Add half-hitch knots along one or both sides for a neat edge or texture.
  6. Add beads (optional): Slide beads onto center cords and tie a square knot below each bead to hold it in place.
  7. Finish: Make a gathering knot around all cords near the end (wrap a short cord tightly several inches down, tuck or glue the tail), or form a loop and knot to attach a button/clasp. Trim ends to desired length and tidy the fringe.

Quick variations

  • Chevron look: Offset knot groups (start knots staggered) for a chevron pattern.
  • Beaded bracelet: Add beads between knots for a boho look.
  • Adjustable closure: Leave extra cord and braid or knot to make an adjustable sliding closure.

Tips

  • Keep knot tension consistent for a neat band.
  • Practice one square knot first to get the motion right before working the full bracelet.
  • If unsure about length, cut a little extra, you can trim later.

If you like this article, you’ll love this Easy Beginner Macrame Projects: DIY Ideas to Start Today

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