How to Macrame an Adjustable Closure

Making a square knot is part of the process of creating an adjustable closure.

Adding a sliding knot to your handmade necklace or bracelet allows you to make it adjustable in size. It's easier to put on and take off, and you can be sure it's going to fit the person who purchases the necklace, or who receives it as a gift. Make the adjustable closure with the same cord you used to make the necklace or bracelet, or choose a contrasting cord so that the closure stands out. The closure is a series of simple square knots that surround both ends of the necklace or bracelet.

Things You'll Need

• Macrame necklace or bracelet
• Cord, 12 inches
• Scissors
• Glue

Instructions

1. Leave 2 to 3 inches of the cord at each end of the necklace or bracelet with no beading or other jewelry. Tie a bead on each end.

2. Lay the necklace on a flat surface in a circle with the ends of the necklace overlapping. The overlapping ends will be the filler cord for the adjustable closure.

3. Cut 12 inches of cord in a matching or contrasting color. This will be the working cord. Lay the 12-inch cord under the filler cords, at a right angle to the overlapping cords of the necklace. To start the closure, you'll make a left-handed half knot and then a right-handed half knot. Together they make a square knot.

4. Take the left end of the working cord and lay it over the two filler cords and the right end of the working cord. Bring the right end of the working cord up over the left end, under the two filler cords and up through the loop made by the left end of the working cord. Tighten the half knot.

5. Take the right hand end of the working cord and lay it over the two filler cords and the left end of the working cord. Wrap the left end up over the right end of the working cord and under the two filler cords, then through the loop made by the right end of the working cord. Tighten the knot so it looks square and smooth.

6. Make two or three more square knots.

7. Tie an overhand knot on the underside of the last square knot. Seal the knot with a strong glue. Let it dry. Cut off the ends of the knotting cord. Glue the cut ends so they don't ravel.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't make the square knots so tight that the filler cords can't slide easily.

References

• YouTube: Double Square Knot Demonstration
• Friendship-Bracelets.net: Buckle for Adjustable Bracelet Size
• Free-Macrame-Patterns.com: Learn Macrame

Resources

• Beaded Macrame Jewelry: Stylish Designs, Exciting New Materials; Sherri Haab