5 Must-Try Macrame Necklace Patterns for Handmade Gift Ideas

Macrame necklaces make wonderfully personal, eco-friendly gifts. With just a few cords, basic knots, and a special focal—like a gemstone or crystal—you can create wearable art that’s both on-trend and heartfelt. These five patterns range from beginner-friendly to more intricate designs, each including Skill Level, Materials, Instructions, and Tips so you can craft the perfect gift in no time. Let’s get knotting!

1. Macrame Necklace with a Stone Tutorial

Skill Level: Beginner+
Materials:

• 1.5 mm waxed polyester cord (approx. 3 m)
• Polished gemstone pendant with loop (e.g., agate slice)
• Clipboard or tape to secure your work
• Scissors

Instructions:

1. Secure Cords: Cut two 1.5 m cords. Fold each in half and secure their midpoints side-by-side under your clipboard—creating four working strands.
2. Attach Pendant: Slide each folded cord end through the pendant’s loop, then pull the loose ends through to create a lark’s head knot, anchoring the stone.
3. Square Knot Collar: Use the two outer strands as working cords and the two inner as cores. Tie square knots across for 2 cm to form a collar.
4. Optional Extension: If you want an adjustable length, finish with a sliding knot using all four strands. Otherwise, tie a simple overhand knot and trim.

Tips:

• Keep your square knots evenly tensioned for a neat “collar” effect.
• Choose a pendant with a sturdy loop to prevent slipping.

2. Ecocrafta Macrame Necklace Pattern

Skill Level: Intermediate
Materials:

• 2 mm natural hemp cord (4 m)
• Wooden bead or tag for accent
• Lobster clasp and jump rings
• Clipboard or macrame board

Instructions:

1. Base Setup: Cut four 1 m lengths of hemp. Secure midpoints with a simple knot under your clipboard.
2. Alternating Hitch Rows:
   • Row 1: Using the outer left cord, tie double half-hitch knots across the four center cords (forming a diagonal).
   • Row 2: Switch to the outer right cord and knot back the other way, creating an “X” pattern.
   • Repeat for 5 cm of weaving.
3. Add Wooden Accent: Slide on a bead or tag onto the center two cords, then continue hitch rows to lock it in place.
4. Finish & Hardware: Braid the remaining ends into two braids, knot each, and attach jump rings + clasp.

Tips:

• Natural hemp looks best unvarnished for an earthy vibe.
• Use a contrasting bead to highlight the eco feel.

3. Macrame Choker with Crystal Stone Tutorial

Skill Level: Beginner–Intermediate
Materials:

• 1 mm waxed cotton cord (3 m)
• Small crystal point pendant (wrapped or with bail)
• Ribbon clamp ends or small cord ends
• Jewelry pliers, lobster clasp

Instructions:

1. Cord Prep: Cut three 1 m lengths. Fold in half and anchor under your clipboard (six working strands).
2. Center Pendant: Thread the pendant’s bail onto the center two cords and position at your working height.
3. Reverse Half-Hitch Collar:
   • Use the two outermost cords as working; tie reverse half-hitch knots around the five cords to each side of the pendant, forming a snug choker band about 1 cm wide.
4. Finish with End Caps: Gather cords into ribbon clamp ends, pressing firmly. Attach a short chain and clasp.

Tips:

• Use a row counter to keep band width consistent.
• Lightly spray with fabric starch and block on a curve so the choker sits comfortably.

4. One Macrame Necklace 3 Ways Pattern

Skill Level: Intermediate
Materials:

• 1.5 mm polyester cord (3.5 m)
• Small cluster of beads or pendant (optional)
• Sliding knot hardware

Instructions:

1. Core Chain: With all cords looped and secured, tie a row of square knots for 2 cm.
2. Variation A – Long Fringe: Leave all cords loose after knots for a tassel effect.
3. Variation B – Braided Back: Braid the leftover cords into a 10 cm braid, knotting at the end.
4. Variation C – Beaded Tassel: Thread beads onto individual strands, knot below each bead for a beaded fringe.
5. Adjustable Closure: Gather cords together and tie a sliding knot to finish.

Tips:

• This one pattern gives three distinct looks—experiment with cord length for each.
• Mix in metallic accent cords for a modern twist.

5. DIY Macrame Necklace with Stone Tutorial

Skill Level: Beginner+
Materials:

• 1 mm nylon cord (2.5 m)
• Drilled gemstone bead (10 mm hole)
• Jewelry findings: crimp ends and chain + clasp
• Clipboard, scissors

Instructions:

1. String Gemstone: Thread the cord through the bead and center it.
2. Micro Square Knots: On each side of the bead, tie 10 micro square knots using two working cords around the bead cord.
3. Combine Cords: After knotting, gather all four strands into a small crimp end; crimp shut and attach a chain + clasp.
4. Repeat on Other Side: Mirror the knot cluster and crimp to finish.

Tips:

• Micro square knots take practice—keep your cord taut for uniformity.
• Choose a gemstone with a large hole to accommodate multiple strands.

Conclusion

Macrame necklaces blend timeless knotting techniques with modern style—perfect for gifting handmade love to friends and family. Whether you’re drawn to crystal chokers, eco-friendly hemp designs, or versatile multi-style patterns, these 5 must-try macrame necklace tutorials cover a range of tastes and skill levels. Gather your cords, choose a focal stone or bead, and knot your way to one-of-a-kind jewelry that tells a story every time it’s worn. Happy crafting!