Examples of DIY Macrame Wall Hanging: 3 Step-by-Step Examples You Can Actually Make

3 Real Examples of DIY Macrame Wall Hanging You Can Recreate

Let’s skip the theory and get straight into examples of DIY macrame wall hanging: 3 step-by-step examples that you can actually finish in a weekend. Each project builds on the last, so if you’re brand new, start with Example One and work your way up.

You’ll see these phrases a lot: example of, examples include, best examples. That’s because I want you to walk away with real, concrete ideas—not vague “just tie some knots” advice.

Example 1: Beginner Fringe Macrame Wall Hanging (Perfect First Project)

If you want an easy example of DIY macrame wall hanging, this is it. Think of this as the white T-shirt of macrame: simple, classic, and goes with everything.

Supplies

You don’t need a craft store haul for this one. For this first example of a wall hanging, you’ll want:

• 3–4 mm cotton macrame cord (about 80–100 feet)
• One wooden dowel or smooth stick, about 12–16 inches wide
• Scissors
• Tape measure or ruler
• A hook, nail, or command strip to hang it while you work

Step 1: Cut and Attach Your Cords

Cut 16–20 cords, each about 6 feet long. This sounds long, but remember: you’ll fold them in half, and knots eat up length.

Fold each cord in half and attach it to the dowel using a lark’s head knot:

• Hold the folded end (the loop) over the front of the dowel.
• Bring the loop down behind the dowel.
• Pull the two loose ends through the loop and tighten.

Once you’ve attached all your cords, you’ll have a curtain of hanging strands. This is your blank canvas.

Step 2: Create a Simple Pattern With Square Knots

Now you’ll use the workhorse of macrame: the square knot. If you can tie this, you can do most beginner macrame patterns.

• Take four cords at a time. The two outer cords are “working cords,” and the two inner cords are “filler cords.”
• Bring the left working cord over the two middle cords and under the right working cord.
• Bring the right working cord under the middle cords and up through the loop on the left. Tighten.
• Now reverse it: right working cord over the middle, under the left; left working cord under the middle and through the right loop. Tighten.

That’s one full square knot.

For this first example of DIY macrame wall hanging, tie a row of square knots across the top, using every group of four cords.

Then, for the next row:

• Skip the first two cords.
• Start your square knots with cords 3–6, then 7–10, and so on.

This creates a staggered diamond-like pattern that looks way more advanced than it is.

Repeat this for 4–6 rows, alternating between full rows and staggered rows. You’ll start seeing that classic macrame texture.

Step 3: Shape the Fringe

To give this example of a wall hanging some personality, you’ll shape the bottom.

Popular 2024–2025 looks include:

• A V-shape (pointed center)
• A soft curve
• A straight, blunt cut for a more modern vibe

While the hanging is on the wall:

• Use a piece of painter’s tape to mark your desired shape.
• Cut the cords just below the tape.
• Comb out the ends with your fingers or a small brush for fluffy fringe.

At this point, you’ve finished your first of three examples of DIY macrame wall hanging. Hang it above a small console table, in a hallway, or layered with framed art.

Trend tip (2024–2025): Earthy neutrals are still big, but people are sneaking in subtle color—think terracotta, sage, or dusty blue cords. If you’re feeling bold, swap every fourth cord for a colored one.

Example 2: Boho Chevron Macrame Wall Hanging With Texture

Now that you’ve got the basics, let’s move to a slightly more advanced example of DIY macrame wall hanging: a chevron piece with layers and texture. This one looks like something you’d see in a boutique.

Supplies

You’ll need:

• 3–5 mm cotton cord (about 150–200 feet, depending on size)
• Wooden dowel or branch, 18–24 inches wide
• Scissors and tape measure
• Optional: a few beads or wooden rings for accents

Step 1: Set Up a Wider Base

Cut 20–24 cords, each about 8 feet long. Attach them to the dowel with lark’s head knots, just like in Example 1.

This wider base gives you room for that dramatic chevron shape. Many of the best examples of macrame wall art you see online use this V-shape because it naturally draws the eye down.

Step 2: Create a Chevron With Square Knots

You’ll be making a large V using rows of square knots.

• Start with a full row of square knots across the top.
• For the second row, leave out the first two and last two cords. Start your square knots with cords 3–6, then 7–10, and so on.
• For each new row, leave out two more cords on each side.

As you keep going, your rows of knots will get shorter, forming a large V in the center. This is a classic example of a DIY macrame wall hanging pattern that looks advanced but is just careful repetition.

Step 3: Add a Second Layer for Depth

To echo what’s trending in 2024–2025, we’re going to layer this piece. Layered macrame is everywhere right now because it adds dimension and looks more sculptural.

Below your main chevron section, leave about 4–6 inches of loose cords. Then:

• Choose a section in the middle (about 8–12 cords wide).
• Tie alternating square knots to form a smaller chevron within the larger one.
• You can also add some half square knots in a row, which will start to spiral and give a rope-like texture.

This is one of the best examples of how a simple change in knot placement can transform the entire look.

Step 4: Finish With a Long, Dramatic Fringe

Instead of trimming this one short, keep the fringe long for a more boho look.

Current examples of macrame wall art often leave the fringe at least one-third of the total height of the piece. So if your knotted section is 12 inches tall, let the fringe hang another 8–12 inches.

You can:

• Leave it straight and sleek
• Cut it into a double V (like a shallow W)
• Add a few beads or wrap small sections with colored embroidery thread

This example of DIY macrame wall hanging works beautifully above a bed, couch, or as a statement in a reading nook.

Example 3: Modern Asymmetrical Macrame Wall Hanging (On-Trend for 2024–2025)

The third of our examples of DIY macrame wall hanging: 3 step-by-step examples wouldn’t be complete without something modern and a little artsy. This one leans into asymmetry, which is very on trend right now.

Think of this as the gallery-wall version of macrame: a bit unexpected, a bit sculptural, and very customizable.

Supplies

You’ll want:

• 3–4 mm cotton cord, 150–200 feet
• A wooden dowel or branch, 20–28 inches wide
• Scissors and tape measure
• Optional: contrasting thinner cord (like 2 mm) for accent sections

Step 1: Vary Your Cord Lengths From the Start

Instead of cutting all cords the same length, you’ll create an asymmetrical base.

Cut:

• 8 cords at 10 feet
• 8 cords at 8 feet
• 8 cords at 6 feet

Attach them with lark’s head knots, mixing the lengths randomly across the dowel. This uneven starting point is what gives this example of a wall hanging its modern, off-balance feel.

Step 2: Build a Structured Section on One Side

Choose one side—left or right—to be your “heavy” side, where most of the knotting will happen.

On that side:

• Use square knots to create a dense, rectangular panel, maybe 8–10 cords wide and 8–10 rows tall.
• Within that rectangle, add a few rows of diagonal clove hitch knots to create angled lines.

Diagonal clove hitch knots sound intimidating, but they’re just repeated half hitches along a “guide” cord you hold at an angle. They’re a favorite in many modern examples of DIY macrame wall hanging because they create clean, graphic lines.

Step 3: Let the Other Side Stay Light and Flowing

On the opposite side, keep things minimal.

You can:

• Tie just one or two rows of staggered square knots.
• Leave long, loose strands that create a waterfall effect.
• Add a few accent wraps using thinner, colored cord.

This contrast—dense on one side, airy on the other—is what makes this one of the best examples of a modern macrame wall hanging you can DIY.

Step 4: Shape the Bottom Asymmetrically

To finish, trim the bottom so it echoes the asymmetry at the top.

Some ideas:

• Cut the “heavy” side shorter and keep the light side long.
• Create a diagonal line from high on one side to low on the other.
• Mix in a few cords cut much shorter to create staggered layers.

This example of DIY macrame wall hanging looks amazing in a more modern space: think above a desk, in a minimalist living room, or as part of a gallery wall with framed prints.

More Real-World Ideas: 6+ Extra Examples to Inspire You

Beyond these 3 step-by-step examples, here are more real examples of DIY macrame wall hanging projects you can try once you’re comfortable with the basic knots:

• A mini macrame wall hanging on a 6–8 inch dowel for a bathroom or small entryway.
• A macrame photo display, where cords hold mini clothespins for printed photos or postcards.
• A macrame wall plant hanger hybrid, combining a flat wall piece with a small pocket or ring to hold a planter.
• A kids’ room rainbow, using colored cords or wrapping sections in rainbow hues.
• A seasonal macrame wall hanging, adding dried flowers in spring, mini ornaments in winter, or tiny flags for holidays.
• A macrame headboard-style hanging, extra wide and hung behind the bed to mimic a soft, textured headboard.

These examples include both quick wins and bigger statement pieces, all rooted in the same knot vocabulary you’ve already practiced.

Practical Tips for Success (and Sanity)

Macrame looks peaceful on Pinterest, but in real life, it can be a bit of a shoulder workout. A few quick tips to make these examples of DIY macrame wall hanging more enjoyable:

• Work at eye or chest level. Hang your dowel from a hook, clothing rack, or even the top of a door so you’re not hunched over.
• Take breaks. Repetitive motions can strain your hands and shoulders. Health resources like the National Institutes of Health and Mayo Clinic emphasize stretching and posture for repetitive tasks; it applies to crafting too.
• Measure generously. It’s better to have extra cord to trim than to run short mid-pattern.
• Practice knots on scrap cord. Before starting a full piece, practice square knots and lark’s head knots on a few short strands.

If you’re totally new to learning hand-based skills, universities like Harvard often share research on how hands-on hobbies reduce stress and improve focus—macrame definitely fits that category.

FAQs About DIY Macrame Wall Hangings

What are some easy examples of DIY macrame wall hanging for beginners?

Easy examples include a straight-fringe wall hanging made only with lark’s head and square knots, a small chevron piece like Example 1 scaled down, or a mini hanging on a stick from your yard. Any example of a pattern that uses just one or two basic knots is ideal when you’re starting.

Where can I find more examples of macrame patterns?

You can search for “beginner macrame wall hanging pattern” on craft blogs, online marketplaces, and library e-books. Many makers share free real examples on social platforms, and you can pause and rewatch as you learn.

How long does it take to finish one example of a DIY macrame wall hanging?

For a small beginner piece, plan on 1–2 hours. For larger examples of DIY macrame wall hanging like the chevron or asymmetrical designs, expect 3–5 hours, especially if you’re new and pausing to check knots.

What cord is best for these 3 step-by-step examples?

For all three examples of DIY macrame wall hanging: 3 step-by-step examples in this guide, a 3–4 mm single-ply cotton cord is a great starting point. It’s soft on your hands, easy to untie if you make a mistake, and gives that fluffy fringe everyone loves.

Can I customize these examples to fit my space?

Absolutely. These examples of DIY macrame wall hanging are meant to be templates. You can change the width of the dowel, the length of the fringe, the colors of the cord, or even mix in different materials like jute or wool roving.

Final Thoughts: From Examples to Your Own Designs

You’ve just walked through three concrete examples of DIY macrame wall hanging: 3 step-by-step examples that go from simple fringe to layered chevron to modern asymmetry. If you can tie a lark’s head knot and a square knot, you already have the foundation for most beginner-friendly designs.

Use these projects as launchpads, not rules. Start with one example of a pattern from this guide, then tweak it: add a row here, change the shape there, swap in a new color. That’s how you move from copying real examples to creating your own signature macrame style.

And the best part? Every time you look at that finished wall hanging, you’ll know: you made that—with your own two hands.