How to Make a Netted Macrame Pendant

Macrame is the art of tying knots into decorative and functional items, including jewelry.

Macrame is the art of tying knots out of various types of string to create both functional and artistic decorations. The steps to create a macrame design for a net that holds a precious or decorative object are appropriate for beginners to macrame. Making a netted macrame pendant requires that you choose both a type of cord or string and an object that you wish to display in the net -- for example, seashells and semiprecious stones. The larger the object, the easier the macrame project will be. Moreover, the more symmetrical the object, the easier it'll be to tie the knots.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• String or cord
• Ruler
• Masking tape

Instructions

1. Cut eight lengths of cord, using scissors. Each length should measure 10 times the diameter of the object you are wrapping. For example, if you are wrapping a stone that measures about 2 inches wide, cut eight lengths of cord at 20 inches each.

2. Gather four of the cords together in each hand, and lay them flat on your work space in an X shape. Secure the two bunches together using a lanyard knot. Using masking tape, secure the lanyard knot to the bottom of the object.

3. Turn the object upside down. There should be 16 lengths of cord hanging down. Group them into pairs, and tie them together using a linked overhand knot. Tighten the knots sufficiently so that they hold close to the object. Tape the newly tied knots to the object.

4. Continue grouping the lengths of cord into pairs that rest next to each other, alternating from side to side. In even increments, continue to tie linked overhand knots, taping them down as you go to keep the emerging net tight.

5. When you've created a net that covers the length and width of your object, gather all the cords together at the top. Divide them into four groups of four strings each, and secure them using a lanyard knot. Repeat this same lanyard knot twice more.

Tips & Warnings

• Beginners may want to cut lengths of cord extra long the first few times.

• Choose an object to wrap that is symmetrical.

References

• The Beading Gem's Journal: How to Make Macrame Jewelry Tutorials