How to Make Elaborate Macrame Bracelets
Macrame is a jewelry design process that uses knot repetition to make patterns. Macrame designs can be very elaborate when several knots are combined to make one complex pattern. Once you get the basic knots down, it actually isn't all that difficult. The complex pattern for this macrame bracelet is called an alternating square knot pattern.
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Things You'll Need
- 4 hemp cords, 3-yard lengths
- Scissors
- Tape or T-pin
- Foam board or other working surface
Instructions
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1
Fold all four strands in half. Grab the top of the fold and loop it around your finger. Pull the top of the loop through the hole made by your finger and pull tight. This is an overhand knot and it secures the strands. Tape to your working surface the top of the loop formed.
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2
Divide the strands into groups of four. Push the right group out of the way. Pull the middle two strands of the left group down and tape them down. Take the rightmost strand and cross it over top of the middle strands. Pull the leftmost strand over top of the right. This should form a figure that looks like a backward "4." Take the leftmost strand under the middle strands and through the middle of the "4." Pull tight. This is the first half of a square knot. Repeat this process with the left group, starting by pulling the leftmost strand over top of the middle, then bringing the right down, under, and through the hole. This forms a complete square knot.
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3
Repeat Step 2 with the right group of strands.
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4
Bring the rightmost strand of the left group and the leftmost strand of the right group together. Tape these strands down. Now form a square knot using the next innermost strand from the left and right group.
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5
Repeat Steps 2 through 4 until the macrame bracelet is the desired length. Finish the bracelet with another overhand knot.
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Tips & Warnings
Hemp cord is used in this how-to, but you can also use cotton or nylon cord.
Alternating square knots can be pulled tight for a patterned effect or left loose for a lacy appearance.
Add 1/2 inch to your wrist measurements to compensate for the thickness of the hemp.
References
- Photo Credit ball of hemp string image by Maria Brzostowska from Fotolia.com
