Getting started with macramé can feel overwhelming. With so many different fibers, names, and materials out there, it’s easy to get stuck before you’ve even tied your first knot. I know the feeling — when I first started, I spent hours googling and ended up buying the wrong materials more than once!
To save you the same frustration, I’ve put together this quick guide to the most common macramé fibers. Whether you’re a total beginner or just looking to understand your options better, this breakdown will help you choose the right cord for your project with confidence.
The Three Main Types of Macramé Cord
1. String (Single Ply / Single Strand)
- Made by twisting many tiny threads together into one.
- Flexible and soft, making it easy to work with.
- Best for projects where you want smooth knots or a delicate look.
- Unravels and frays easily, which is perfect for creating fringe.
Great for beginners and detailed designs.
2. Rope (Triple Ply / Triple Strand)
- Made from three single strands twisted into one strong rope.
- Can be untwisted to create separate strands if needed.
- Creates a wavy, textured fringe when brushed out.
- Sturdier than single ply but still soft to work with.
Perfect for plant hangers, wall hangings, and larger projects.
3. Braided Cord
- Made from many threads braided together, usually around a strong core.
- Extremely durable and resistant to unraveling.
- Adds texture and structure to projects.
- Harder to fray, so it’s not ideal if you love fluffy fringe.
Great for heavy-duty projects and outdoor use.
Choosing the Right Thickness
Macramé cords come in many sizes, usually measured in millimeters. Thickness matters for both the look and feel of your project.
- Small (1–2mm): Best for fine detail work and jewelry.
- Medium (3–5mm): Ideal for plant hangers, coasters, and keychains.
- Large (6–12mm): Great for wall hangings, rugs, and big statement pieces.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match cord sizes in the same project for a unique texture!
Materials to Consider
- 100% Cotton: Soft, versatile, and widely available.
- Recycled Cotton: Eco-friendly, soft, and sustainable.
- Polyester/Nylon: Strong and mildew-resistant — great for outdoor projects (though tougher on the hands).
Final Thoughts
With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed but remember, there’s no “wrong” way to do macramé. Whether you choose string, rope, or braided cord, the most important thing is to experiment and enjoy the process.
Your creations will be beautiful because they’re handmade by you. So grab some cord, start tying knots, and see where your creativity takes you.