Macrame is a craft similar to knitting and crochet that's been getting a lot of traction lately. It's a fiber art form created by tying knots to build elaborate, Bohemian-style designs — you can macrame items like wall hangings, clothing, and even jewelry.
Traditionally, macrame is made using a special macrame cord, usually cotton, which is thicker and more durable than regular yarn. But if it's your first time trying macrame, you might not have cord on hand — what you do have is a big collection of knitting yarn. Will that work as an alternative?
You can definitely use knitting yarn for macrame — the most important thing is that the material can be knotted. That said, when using knitting yarn as an alternative to purpose-made cord, choose a chunkier yarn with a higher ply to get the design you're after. It also helps if the yarn is a natural fiber like cotton, wool, or alpaca — though that can be more cost-prohibitive. We like natural fibers for macrame projects because of their natural elasticity.
What Material Is Best for Macrame?
For macrame projects, it's generally best to use a macrame cord made specifically for the craft. These cords can be made from natural materials like jute or cotton twine, or synthetic materials like polypropylene and nylon.
Most macrame crafters prefer cotton cord, since it's soft, versatile, and easy to knot — its natural creamy white color also gives a project that earthy, Bohemian character macrame is known for. Cotton and other natural yarns also take dye well, giving you more design flexibility.
What Is the Difference Between Macrame Rope and Yarn?
Macrame cords come in a range of sizes, typically sold as small (1–2 mm diameter), medium (3–4 mm), or large (5–6 mm).
Large cords, at 5–6 mm thick, are usually called rope rather than yarn. They're used for bigger projects like plant hangers and hammocks, and their higher ply makes them more durable — ideal for projects that need to hold weight.
What Type of Yarn Is Used for Macrame?
Macrame is a versatile craft that works with a range of natural and synthetic fibers, including:
- Cotton — Considered the best option for macrame because it's soft and easy to knot. Cotton's off-white color also plays into the Bohemian aesthetic.
- Jute — The least popular macrame material because it's stiff and coarse, though more experienced crafters use it for its natural brown color and durability.
- Hemp — Used for macrame jewelry because it's sturdy, easy to knot, and thin enough to string beads through.
- Natural yarns — Best for macrame clothing thanks to their soft, delicate structure, though they can be harder to work with since they compress more, yielding smaller knots.
- Polyester — A smooth synthetic cord that produces tight, strong knots.
- Parachute cord — A strong nylon material that can carry heavy weights, making it well-suited to hammocks and plant hangers.
- Satin — Popular for macrame accessories thanks to its shiny finish, though it can be slippery and harder to work with.
- Synthetic yarn — Acrylic and polyester are the most common synthetic choices, forming tight knots that work well for toys and home decor.
You can learn more about the different types of yarn in our complete guide.
Making Macrame With Cotton
Cotton yarn is your best bet as an alternative to macrame cord. It's soft and easy to knot, which makes the whole project easier to work through.
Keep in mind, though, that cotton yarn compresses and flexes more than cotton twine made specifically for macrame. Choose a cotton knitting yarn that's thicker and has a higher ply to compensate.
Macrame Projects Made With Knitting Wool
Wool's soft, warm, breathable construction makes it a top choice for wearable knitting projects like sweaters, hats, and blankets — and it can work just as well for wearable macrame pieces.
Along with being soft, comfortable, and moisture-wicking, wool can help you achieve intricate designs with that classic '70s fashion feel.
All of that said, these qualities also make knitting wool fairly expensive. If you're making a macrame project that isn't meant to be worn, cotton or another fiber is usually the more practical choice — wool tends not to be a crafter's first pick for macrame unless it's for something special.
Is Acrylic Yarn Good for Macrame?
Acrylic yarn is one of the most versatile synthetic yarns used for knitting or crocheting, and it can work for macrame too — some purpose-made cords are even made from synthetic materials like acrylic and polyester.
That said, acrylic yarn tends to create tighter, smaller knots, so it works best for macrame projects meant to be a little less airy, like toys or home decor.
Can I Use Yarn for a Macrame Plant Hanger?
Yes, you can absolutely use yarn to make a macrame plant hanger. Before you start, though, consider the thickness, strength, and size of the yarn, along with how tight it gets once knotted.
Since a plant hanger needs to support the weight of a pot, choose a yarn that's at least 3-ply or braided. Thick cotton twine or rope works best here, since it's strong enough to hold weight while still allowing for an airy, open-work design.
As for how much yarn you'll need: aim for at least 8 strands, each about 94 inches long. A good rule of thumb is to measure the height of your pot and cut strands four to six times that height that gives you enough room to work with as you build out the design.
Conclusion
Macrame is a versatile craft, which means you can use almost any fiber to make a project as long as it meets the minimum requirements for strength and durability. Pay attention to the yarn's thickness and flexibility, and choose a yarn that fits the needs of your specific macrame project.
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