Quick answer
Many cords and ropes can stand in for standard cotton macrame cord. Jute, hemp, linen, chunky yarn, t-shirt yarn, nylon and paracord are all commonly used. The right substitute depends on what you are making. Softness, stiffness, stretch and how well a knot holds are the traits to compare. Where a piece will carry weight, such as a plant hanger, choose a strong, low-stretch material and test it first.
Natural fibre alternatives
- Jute: Affordable and rustic. It is stiff and can shed fibres or feel scratchy, so it suits decor more than wearables.
- Hemp: Strong and durable, and it softens with use. A common choice for jewelry, bracelets and small accessories.
- Linen: A smoother, finer fibre with a tidy look. It is often used for finer work.
- Sisal: Very tough and coarse, so it is better for outdoor or utility projects than for anything worn.
- Raffia: A flat, ribbon-like natural fibre used as an accent rather than as the main cord.
Chunky and recycled materials
- Chunky yarn: Wool or acrylic chunky yarn can work for soft, cozy pieces. It tends to stretch and can pill, so it is best for decor rather than load-bearing items. Several strands can be held together for a thicker cord.
- T-shirt yarn (trapillo): Made from fabric strips. It is stretchy and thick, which suits baskets, rugs and bags more than precise knotwork.
- Paper cord: Gives a sculptural, stiff look but is not suited to damp areas.
Synthetic and specialty cords
- Nylon and polyester cord: Usually resistant to moisture, so they are often chosen for outdoor items. They can be slippery, so knots may need tightening carefully.
- Paracord: Strong, colourful and popular for bracelets, keychains and practice. It is slippery and does not fray into fringe.
- Waxed cord: Thin and grippy, a common choice for micro-macrame jewelry.
- Leather cord: Stylish for accessories, though it can be stiff and hard to untie once knotted. If you enjoy working with it, see leatherworking as a hobby.
Household substitutes
Items like kitchen twine, garden twine, shoelaces or ribbon are sometimes used in a pinch. They can be fine for small decorative practice pieces. Thin twine can cut into hands during tight knotting, and none of these should be trusted for hanging heavy or valuable items unless you have checked their strength.
Comparison table
| Material | Feel | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jute | Rough, rustic | Decor, planters | Shedding, scratchy |
| Hemp | Firm, softens | Jewelry, accessories | Colour range |
| Chunky yarn | Soft, cozy | Wall decor | Stretch, pilling |
| T-shirt yarn | Stretchy, thick | Baskets, bags | Loose knot definition |
| Nylon / polyester | Smooth | Outdoor items | Slipping knots |
| Paracord | Firm, slippery | Bracelets, keychains | Does not fringe |
How to choose
- Decide whether the piece must hold weight.
- Think about where it will live, indoors or outdoors.
- Consider how it will feel against skin.
- Make a small test knot or two before committing a whole project.
For a full look at standard options and thickness, see our guide to the types of macrame cord.
Making your own cord
Fabric strips, yarn or thin rope can be twisted or braided together to create a thicker custom cord. Twisting by hand works for short lengths, and results will be a little uneven, which many makers consider part of the charm. Test the finished cord’s strength before using it for anything that carries weight.
FAQ
What can you use for macrame cord?
Cotton rope is the usual choice, but jute, hemp, linen, yarn, t-shirt yarn, nylon and paracord are all used.
Can you make macrame with yarn?
Yes, especially chunky yarn for light decor pieces. It stretches more than rope, so avoid it for heavy loads.
What is the difference between paracord and macrame cord?
Paracord is a nylon cord with a woven sheath, strong and slippery. Macrame cord is usually cotton or similar and softer, with a textile look. You might use paracord for a macrame loop without a ring on a keychain, for example, but it behaves differently from cotton.