Macrame is becoming increasingly popular in the craft world (if you're interested in 2021 crafts then check out our craft trends post) because it's as beautiful as it is meditative. Some of the biggest names in macrame have published their own macrame books (as well as their own macrame kits) making it super easy for newbies to pick up all the techniques. Whether you're completely new to macrame or more experienced there's a macrame book out there for you. There's loads of different types of macrame books, the most common type being beginner guides and picture books full of step-by-step photos on how to do macrame knots. The second most common type is macrame pattern books which are full of different homeware and decorative patterns for you to follow and make. We've rounded the best of both types of macrame books right here so you can get your geek on. There's some macrame books for beginners and some for more advanced macrame makers.
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Once you've found your perfect macrame book why not give our macrame bunting a go? Oh and make sure you use our basic macrame knots guide to learn all the techniques needed and our best macrame cords to buy article which shows you where to buy your materials!
Looking for macrame projects? Check out our guide to the best free macrame patterns.
Best macrame books
Our top macrame books for beginners
1. Sian Hamilton's macrame techniques book
Written by crafter and designer Sian Hamilton, this beginner macrame book includes eleven basic projects for you to make. The book takes you through all the techniques and knots you need to know as well as explains the history of macrame. It's ideal for newbies who not only want to learn but also practice their newfound skills. It has excellent reviews and we love the range of projects inside. There's everything from plant hangers to more complex decorative wall hangings so you can work your way through the book growing your skills with every project. Sian's book is available in paperback and on the kindle (super handy as you can prop it up while you make).
2. Tys Knots beginner macrame knots E-book
Ty is the macrame expert behind the Tys Knots books and also creates kits, patterns, and workshops for the public. Her first E-book is a complete guide to seven of the most common macrame knots and has really detailed copy to accompany each step by step photo. It's ideal for beginners because it's both simple and affordable.
3. Dorothy Wood's How to Macrame Book
Dorothy Wood is an expert crafter who's written over 2o craft books and now she's tackling the world of macrame! Dorthy's macrame book covers all the basic knots through clear diagrams as well as her tips and tricks for getting to grips with macrame. Whilst it's mostly a how-to guide it does include three macrame jewellery projects for you to make.
4. Emily Senra's 3 macrame books in 1
Three macrame books for the price of one? Yes please! Emily Senra is the author of four macrame books in total which range from tutorials for complete beginners to more complex patterns. This set comes with three of her books and would make a great gift for someone wanting to step into the world of macrame. It includes her famous Macrame for Beginners book as well as Modern Macrame and Macrame Patterns.
5. Fanny Zedenius' The Craft of Creative Knotting
Fibre artist and founder of Createaholic Fanny Zedenius has come out with her own macrame book for beginners that's perfect for curious newbies. The book features a knot glossary that covers 30 of the most popular macrame knots as well as 21 projects for you to make. Charts, illustrations and photo guides make it a really easy book to follow and read - a perfect gift for someone wanting to try macrame.
6. Windy Chien's macrame knots book
You may have heard of artist Windy Chien before because of her knot challenge! In 2016 Wendy learned a different knot every single day and documented the process over on her Instagram. She's now collected all her learnings and knot knowledge in a handy book that's a must-buy for any macrame enthusiasts. Tutorials, personal stories, projects and patterns - this book has it all.
7. Adeline Clarkson's Macrame for beginners
This hands-on macrame book for beginners is by Adeline Clarkson. Her book teaches you everything from fundamental macrame knots to the history of the craft. There's photo instructions and plenty of projects for you to get started on. We also love that Adeline shares her top tools, tips on how to sell your pieces and how to save money on materials. Once you've learned all the basic knots from this macrame book you'll be able to make our macrame bracelet.
8. Amanda Jones' Macrame for Absolute Beginners
Amanda Jones' macrame book is another affordable option for those starting out. It covers 14 basics knots all explained with careful instructions and step-by-step photos. Amanda also sells a macrame patterns book separately which includes a macrame owl tutorial! They'd make a great present duo.
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9. Michelle Yate's macrame book for beginners
Michelle Yates is a macrame fanatic and has shared all her experience and tips in her book Macrame for Beginners. Throughout this book, Michelle teaches everything from what tools you need to detailed descriptions of each knot. There's even FAQ section answering the most commonly asked questions and problems when it comes to macrame making. This book is ideal for beginners and comes with some simple projects for you to make with your newfound skills.
Books of macrame patterns and more advanced projects
10. Isabella Strambio's macrame for the modern home
Buy it now from Waterstones (also sold at Joann's)
Isabella Strambio is a renowned macrame artist having designed projects for magazines like Mollie Makes. Isabella even has projects here on Gathered like her Christmas macrame star. Needless to say, she's an expert in all things macrame and her book Macrame for the Modern Home includes 16 must make patterns that will have your home looking like a bohemian dream.
11. Marchen Art's macrame pattern book
Buy it now from Waterstones (also sold at Joann's)
Marchen Art have created the ultimate macrame patterns book collating over 30 projects in a range of sizes for you to make. There's everything from jewellery projects to DIY baskets. Their in-depth macrame book will also teach you about different types of threads, cords, clasps, and beads. It really is a one-stop shop for all things macrame-related.
12. Rebecca Millar's Elemental Macrame book
Macrame designer Rebecca Miller created Vanir Creations back in 2017 and we've loved her macrame designs ever since. Her beautiful whimsical projects have a magical edge and she's now published a macrame patterns book with 20 projects inside. She talks about the spiritual link between macrame and the natural world as well as incorporating healing crystals into her patterns.
13. Elly Owens Macrame Patterns Book
Elly Owens macrame patterns book is a comprehensive illustrated guide to all things macrame. It includes all tutorials on all the basic knots as well as a list of supplies you'll need. Elly shares her macrame tips alongside a range of homeware projects for you to make.
14. Natalie Ranae statement macrame patterns book
Go big or go home is what we say! If you're a more advanced macrame maker then this is the book for you. Natalie Ranae is a macrame designer by trade, creating huge custom pieces for spas and homes around America. She's now created her own macrame patterns book with 12 large-scale intermediate and advanced projects inside. If you're looking to make a wedding backdrop, hammock or something bigger then pick this book up.
15. Marchen Art Studio's Macrame Decor book
From macrame garden chairs to macrame pillows, Macrame Decor is the go-to macrame patterns book for home interiors. The 25 patterns inside will teach you how you can incorporate macrame into every room in your home to give it a handmade touch. The photo step-by-step instructions are easy to follow and there's projects for both beginners and advanced makers.
16. Amy Mullins and Marnia Ryan-Raison's Macrame for Beginners and Beyond
Amy Mullins and Marnia Ryan-Raison have teamed up again to write their second book Macrame for Beginners and Beyond. Their comprehensive macrame patterns book includes 12 projects with an 'easy' and 'advanced' version of each one, allowing you to tailor the patterns to your ability.
17. Couture macrame patterns book
Take your macrame to the next level with Gwenaël Petiot's macrame couture book. Having created pieces for fashion designers and Cirque du Soleil, Gwenaël is a creative genius when it comes to clothing and his macrame book is just another of his masterpieces. There's 17 patterns in this book and they'll teach you how to can incorporate the world of macrame into your wardrobe and accessories.
18. Emily Katz's modern macrame book
Emily Katz is the creator behind Modern Macrame on Instagram and with 295k followers, you just know her book is going to be good. It's full of modern macrame patterns which add a touch of the rustic handmade into your home. From driftwood wall art to hanging herb gardens, her book will keep you inspired and passionate about the world of macrame.
19. Samantha Grenier's Macrame for Home Decor
Known as a "knotty" professional, Samantha Grenier is an expert macrame maker whose book Macrame for Home Decor uses natural macrame cord to make 40 contemporary macrame projects. If you want to learn how to knot rugs, room dividers, pillows, and more then this is the macrame patterns book for you.
20. Shufunotomo's Decorative Macrame
Decorative Macrame is the ideal macrame patterns book for those of you wanting to make both small and big projects. There's tiny macrame projects inside like keyrings or curtain ties which are perfect evening projects for beginners. But it's also full of huge projects like wall hangings and rugs which will take even the more experienced macrame artist a little time. Basically, there's something for everyone!
21. Mia Boyle's Make it Modern Macramé
Mia Boyle is the creator of Peanut Butter & Jelly Bean, a hugely successful brand, and Instagram which prides itself on innovative and modern macrame projects. Mia has taken all her expertise and channeled it into her first book Make it Modern Macrame. Her book features a huge range of projects including coasters, wrapped rainbows, flowers, mandalas, and much more.
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Now you've got a library of macrame books it's time to get making! Pick up one of these macrame books and give to a fellow crafter or keep it safe and gift at Christmas. Now you've learned all the techniques from your new macrame book, here's >how to make macrame plant hanger and a macrame wall hanging tutorial to make your own gorgeous macrame pieces.
FAQs
What are the 3 basic macrame knots? ›
Today I will show you the three most common macrame knots, the square knot, the spiral knot and the half-hitch knot. By knowing just these three basic knots you will be able to create your own unique piece of macrame that will fit your taste and style.
What is the easiest of all the macrame knots and is found in most patterns? ›Half hitch
The possibilites are endles with this knot. In this article we will explain the most common used variations: Half Hitch, Double half hitch and the Horizontal half hitch. The half hitch knot is great to create wavy patterns in a macrame wall hanging. It is the most simple knot in macrame.
The five most important macrame knots for beginners to learn are the lark's head knot, cow hitch knot, square knot, double half hitch knot, and the wrapping knot. You can grab a free printable PDF of the 5 basic macrame knots down below!
What is the most decorative knot used in macrame? ›Macrame came over to England in the 17th century and has been around ever since! The most common macrame knot is the square knot (we teach you how to do this later) and it makes up the base of most designs.
What is the strongest macrame cord? ›1. Ialwiyo Macramé Cord. The undyed four-ply Ialwiyo cord is a reliable everyday material that looks great in all kinds of projects, from wall hangings to plant hangers. Made of 100% cotton, it delivers on strength and forms firm, reliable knots, but it's also very soft.
What is macrame most popular product? ›- Boho feathers.
- Keychains.
- Wall hangers.
- Macrame garland.
- Plant and jar hangers.
- Hammocks.
- Necklaces, bracelets and. earrings.
- Christmas ornaments.
Since you don't need to know how to handle any extra tools, many people consider macrame an easier art form to learn than both knitting and crocheting.
What is the most frequent pattern in macrame? ›The most common macrame knot is the square knot and it makes up the base of most designs. There are hundreds of different macrame knots but by learning the basics, you'll be able to create gorgeous pieces that will stand the test of time.
What is the most popular size macrame cord? ›Medium size 3 – 6mm cord is the most common size in many general macramé projects. It is considered the standard size of the macramé rope. This diameter is perfect for produce bags, placemats, mandalas, wall décor, plant hangers, and many more items. If you want to add beads, look for those with larger holes.
What are the three types of macrame? ›- Braided cord.
- 3-ply rope.
- Single twist string.
How long does it take to make a big macrame? ›
I would say this depends a lot on the project. What is this? If you want to make a macrame plant hanger, it only takes about an hour! However a more intricate DIY macramé wall hanging could take 4+ hours.
How hard is it to learn macrame? ›Is macrame easy to learn? Yes. Although it looks challenging, it is a simple and fun craft that anyone can learn to do. Once you learn a few basic knots (don't worry I'll show you how to do some in the video), you will be able to create beautiful macrame projects like this one.
What's the difference between macrame cord and macrame rope? ›A cord is sturdier than a string, and a rope is even sturdier than a cord. In other settings, ropes are used to tie down heavy objects. But in macrame, you use this material to create robust and heavier pieces.
What is the most sophisticated tie knot? ›The Full-Windsor knot, sometimes called the Double-Windsor, is the most formal knot of the three. This is the fullest, widest knot, and so goes best with wider and longer neckties. Its fullness gives it the most formal look and so is appropriate with formal, wide spread dress shirts.
What is the best string for macrame? ›What is the best cord for Macrame? Although you can use any type of cord for Macrame, most fiber artists prefer working with high-quality cotton cords. Not only are cotton cords easy to unravel when you make a mistake (which makes them perfect for beginners) but they also give a gorgeous fringe when combed out.
What is another name for macrame? ›They called the process "square knotting" after the knot they used most often. Sailors also called macramé "McNamara's lace".
Does Hobby Lobby carry macrame cord? ›Red Bonnie Braided Macrame Craft Cord - 4mm | Hobby Lobby | 23667. FREE SHIPPING* on orders of $50 or more.
Is 3mm or 4mm better for macrame? ›Medium Ropes, 4mm-7mm are perhaps most commonly used, a great size for macramé beginners, more sturdy than the smaller ropes and the perfect size for plant hangers, wall hangings, furniture, lanterns, curtains, rugs, etc.
Is macrame still popular in 2023? ›Tapestry and macramé hangings are going out of style.
Certain aspects of Bohemian-style design will carry over into 2023, though, like nature-inspired hues and an emphasis on overall comfort.
Macramé's knot-tying origins can be traced back to 13th-century Arabic decorative weavers who used the knots to secure loose ends of woven textiles, like towels and shawls. Many believe the term “macramé” comes from the Arabic word migramah or “fringe.”
Is macrame becoming popular again? ›
The 1970s have called and they want to congratulate you on reviving one of their most iconic crafts, macrame. Once the rage for wall hangings, planter hangers, keychains and the ubiquitous owl hanging, the once-fad has made a return and has been trending throughout 2021 and 2022.
How do you price handmade macrame? ›Method 1: (Material Cost + Time x Hourly Rate) x 2.5 = Retail. You'll want to keep material costs simple. Only include the cost of the materials you are going to use in the finished product. Time needs to be counted in hours.
Is macrame a craft or art? ›Is macramé a craft or art? Macrame is a craft of knotting a textile. However, when you learn all the knots and techniques, you are empowered to develop unique artistic pieces because of the different pattern formation and knotting styles.
How is macrame price calculated? ›- Understand the market. You must determine how much buyers are willing to pay and what rivals are charging.
- Select the most appropriate price strategy.
- Calculate your expenses.
- Consider using a cost-plus pricing model.
- Decide the price that is based on the item.
- Consider additional variables.
Macrame is a great hobby to learn as you don't need many tools. One of the best things about macrame projects for beginners is that if you go wrong you can simply undo your work! No wasted materials, you can undo your knots and start over if you make a mistake.
Is macrame old fashioned? ›Though the craze for macramé faded, it regained popularity during the 1970s as a means to make wall hangings, articles of clothing, bedspreads, small jean shorts, tablecloths, draperies, plant hangers and other furnishings. By the early 1980s macramé had again begun to fall out of fashion as a decoration trend.
What can I do with leftover macrame cords? ›Although it can be quite annoying to have a lot of leftover Macrame scraps when you're done with a project, you don't have to worry about wasting any. There are many wonderful projects that you can create with Macrame scrap cords like coasters, earrings, tassels, keychains, and more.
What cord is excellent for macrame jewelry? ›Common materials used in macrame include beading cords made of cotton or linen, hemp, leather, twisted nylon and yarn. In recent years, paracord has become another popular material. Beads, charms, links and other accents can be knotted in with the cord to create a wide variety of designs.
What is the best thickness for macrame cord? ›3-5mm cord falls in to the medium category, and this is the thickness that most people tend to use for plant and wall hangings. Most people advise that the 5mm cord is best for beginners, as it is easier to work with, and doesn't take so long to create the first few projects.
How long should a macrame cord be for a plant hanger? ›Here's how much cord you'll need to make a hanging planter with a finished measurement of 36″. If you are starting the planter with a wooden ring, cut six 13-foot (4-meter) pieces of cord. If you are tying a loop instead of a ring, you'll need one cord that's longer than the others.
What is the most basic knot? ›
One of the most basic knots is the square knot, which is a type of end knot. This knot is useful tying up bundles and packages. It is also used for first aid, where it can be used to tie a bandage around a wound to stop the bleeding quickly.
What is the most basic form of knot? ›The overhand knot is the simplest type of knot and is used to make a knob in a rope, string, or cord. It is used for tying packages, to keep rope ends from fraying, and as a first step in making more complex knots such as the surgeon's knot and the square knot.
What is the most common rope used for macrame? ›The most common rope for macrame is twisted three-ply cotton, which is both strong and fringes into a lovely wavy pattern. Some braided six-ply rope is also available, but I'd recommend sticking to three-ply options unless you need a lot of strength.