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. Use code KNOT10 for 10% off.
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.
