What you need
- Cord: 4 mm to 5 mm twisted or single strand cotton is a common choice. See our guide to the types of macrame cord if you are unsure.
- A ring: A wooden or metal ring, roughly 3 to 5 cm across, to hang from. If you do not have one, you can make a macrame loop without a ring.
- Scissors and a measuring tape.
- Something to hang from while you work, such as a hook, door handle or clothes rack.
- A pot, bowl or basket to sit in the finished hanger. A handmade clay pot works nicely.
How much cord do you need
Exact amounts depend on the size of the pot, how many knots you tie and how thick the cord is. A common starting point for a simple plant-pot style hanger is four to eight cords, each several metres long, because knotting uses up much more cord than the finished length suggests. If you are unsure, cut a little extra. Excess is easy to trim, but cord that is too short cannot be fixed. It can help to tie a short test section first to see how much length your knots use.
Step-by-step
1. Cut and fold the cords
Cut your cords to the same length. Fold them in half over the ring so the ring sits in the middle of the bundle.
2. Tie a gathering knot
Take a separate short piece of cord and wrap it tightly around the bundle just below the ring, a few centimetres long, then tuck the end through and pull snug. This holds all the cords together and forms the neck of the hanger.
3. Divide into groups
Separate the cords into groups of equal size, usually four cords per group, so that you have two to four groups.
4. Tie the first row of knots
Tie a spiral or square knot sequence in each group, for a set length. Keep the number of knots equal across groups so the hanger hangs evenly, and keep your tension consistent.
5. Make alternating knots
Take two cords from one group and two from the neighbouring group, and tie a knot with them a few centimetres below the first row. This creates a net-like pattern that will cradle the pot.
6. Add a second row
Repeat the alternating knots another row down, adjusting the spacing based on the size of the pot.
7. Gather and finish
Gather all cords below the net, and tie a large wrapped gathering knot to form a base. Trim the ends evenly, and comb out into a tassel if you like.
Making it hold a pot or bowl
Place your pot in the hanger before finalising the base knot. Check that the net sits snugly at the widest part of the pot and that the pot is level. For a basket-style hanger with a shallow dish or bowl, you can add one more row of knots or a woven base so the bowl cannot slip through.
A quick version
For a fast plant hanger, use a few long cords, fold them over a ring, wrap a gathering knot, tie a single row of alternating knots and finish with a base wrap. It will be simpler and less fitted, but it can be done in a short sitting.
Safety and care
- Hang from a strong, well-fixed hook rated for the weight, and remember that watered soil is heavy.
- Check the cord and knots periodically for wear.
- Avoid keeping cotton cord constantly wet.
- If hanging over people, furniture or anything fragile, consider a secondary support.
Troubleshooting
- Lopsided hanger: Check that the groups have equal knots and that the ring is hanging level.
- Pot slips: Tighten the base wrap or add another row of alternating knots.
- Knots loosen: A tighter pull on each knot, or a cord with more grip, may help.
FAQ
How much macrame cord for a basket?
It varies with the project size, but knotting uses far more cord than the finished length. Test a small section and cut extra.
Can I make a plant hanger in five minutes?
A very basic one is possible with a few cords, a ring and a single row of knots, though it will look simpler.
What knots do I need?
A gathering (wrap) knot, square or spiral knots and alternating knots are enough for a basic hanging basket. If you want to decorate yours with plants or blooms, see our ideas for macrame with flowers.