Frankie Says Macramé: Easy How-to
In my last post, I mentioned using macramé to loosen up. There are many different patterns, but I am going to show you a basic bracelet pattern. These make for awesome homemade gifts or look great stacked. Here we go:
Supplies:
- String (yarn or twine is okay, but is sometimes hard to work with. I use hemp cord, which you can find in the jewelry aisle of craft stores)
- Scissors
- Tape
- Hard surface
- Beads (optional)
- Wine (optional)
The basic set-up:
- Measure about one yard* of cord and fold in half. Put a piece of tape about two inches from the top. Tape the two hanging strings near the bottom to hold in place. (This will be string “A”)
- Measure another three yards of cord and tie a knot under the tape, leaving the two hanging ends even.
- Pull the right end (string “C”) across A and underneath the left end (string “B”).
- Pull B underneath A and C.
- Pull ends to form a knot.
- Repeat the process, this time bringing B across A to the right side and pulling C through to form a knot. Continue forming knots, alternating between the right and left side.
*All measurements are approximate. 1 yard = nose to fingertip, 1 inch = middle portion of index finger.
Adding beads
Simply string beads on A and continue knotting.
Finishing up
When knotted part fits around your wrist, you’re ready to tie it off. The easiest way to do this is to knot the end around itself and use the loop as a closure, but I prefer a more finished look. Your other option is to make a sliding closure:
- Tie each end onto itself and right against the knots (on one end you will still have four strings, so tie all and trim the ends of the two shortest ones). Tie a regular knot on the ends.
- Tape the strings next to each other.
- Use a short piece of cord and make a few macramé knots (10-15) around the four strings. Tie off with two regular knots and trim the ends.
Your bracelet is ready to go! Adjust the slider to fit your wrist and tuck in the loose strings.