Wall hangings are the most popular macrame project for good reason — they transform a blank wall into a conversation piece. Here are 12 designs organized by skill level, from “I literally just learned what a knot is” to “I’ve been doing this for months.”
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Beginner (1-3 Hours)
1. Simple Fringe Hanging
The absolute simplest macrame piece. Attach cords to a driftwood branch with lark’s head knots, add a few rows of square knots at the top, then let everything hang loose. Brush out the strands for fluffy fringe.
Knots used: Lark’s head, square knot Cord: 3mm single-strand cotton, natural color Best for: Your first wall piece. If it’s not perfect, the fringe hides imperfections.
2. Square Knot Panel
A rectangular panel of uniform square knots. Think of it as a macrame “swatch.” Simple, geometric, and modern.
Knots used: Lark’s head, square knot Cord: 4mm single-strand cotton Best for: Minimalist spaces, above a desk or bedside table
3. Macrame Feather
A single oversized feather shape. Cut cords at an angle to create the feather silhouette, then brush everything out. These look incredible grouped in sets of 3.
Knots used: Lark’s head only (the shape comes from cutting, not knotting) Cord: 3mm single-strand cotton (must be single-strand for fringing) Best for: Gallery walls, gifts, filling narrow spaces
4. Mini Hanging Trio
Three small hangings (6-8 inches each) in different patterns, displayed together on a single branch. Make one with square knots, one with spiral knots, and one with pure fringe.
Knots used: Lark’s head, square knot, spiral knot Cord: 3mm cotton Best for: Practice and display. Each one takes 30 minutes.
Intermediate (3-6 Hours)
5. Chevron Pattern
Uses half hitch knots to create V-shaped patterns that repeat down the piece. The first design most people learn after the basics.
Knots used: Lark’s head, double half hitch, square knot Cord: 4mm cotton Best for: Learning angular patterns, impressive results for the effort
6. Diamond Grid
Alternating square knots that create a diamond-shaped negative space pattern. The gaps make it feel light and airy.
Knots used: Lark’s head, square knot (alternating) Cord: 4mm cotton or 3-ply Best for: Above the bed, larger walls, bohemian spaces
7. Layered Hanging
Two or three layers of macrame hung on the same branch at different heights. Each layer can use a different pattern. The depth creates visual interest.
Knots used: Multiple Cord: Mix of 3mm and 5mm for contrast Best for: Statement walls, living rooms
8. Macrame with Beads
Any basic pattern with wooden beads threaded onto the filler cords between knots. Small detail, big visual impact.
Knots used: Any basic knots + threading beads Cord: 4mm cotton (check bead hole size matches your cord) Best for: Adding personality to simple designs
Advanced (6+ Hours)
9. Tree of Life
A branching tree design using half hitches for the trunk and branches, with fringed “leaves.” One of the most popular advanced patterns.
Knots used: All basic knots + shaping techniques Cord: 4mm single-strand cotton Best for: Centerpiece wall art, gifts for nature lovers
10. Mandala Circle
Worked on a circular base (embroidery hoop or metal ring) with patterns radiating from the center. Geometric and meditative to make.
Knots used: Lark’s head, half hitch, square knot, wrapping Cord: 3mm cotton Best for: Round spaces, above a headboard, as a dream catcher
11. Large-Scale Curtain
A full-width macrame curtain or room divider. Uses the same simple knots as a basic hanging, just at a much larger scale. Plan for a full weekend.
Knots used: Lark’s head, square knot, alternating pattern Cord: 5mm or 6mm cotton (stronger for the weight) Best for: Doorways, room dividers, window treatments
12. Mixed Media Piece
Combine macrame with woven elements, dried flowers, driftwood, or copper accents. This is where macrame becomes fine art.
Knots used: Everything Cord: Mix of textures and thicknesses Best for: Statement pieces, selling at markets
Supply Recommendations
For wall hangings, we recommend single-strand cotton cord — it fringes beautifully and comes in the widest color range. Start with natural/off-white for your first piece.
Cord for Wall Hangings
Single-strand cotton cord in natural and dyed colors. Fringes beautifully.
For mounting, driftwood branches create the most organic look. Wooden dowels are cleaner and more modern. Copper pipes add an industrial edge.
Choose your mount before cutting your cords — the width of your mount determines how many cords you need.
