Create beautiful macrame Christmas ornaments with this beginner-friendly tutorial! These mini handmade ornaments use just three simple knots and take about 30 minutes to make. Perfect for your tree, gift wrapping, or boho holiday decor.
Jump to:
- A Quick Look At This Craft
- Why You'll Love These Macrame Christmas Ornaments
- What You'll Learn
- Materials for Macrame Christmas Ornaments
- Basic Macrame Knots Reference
- How to Make Macrame Christmas Ornaments
- Ornament Design #1: Square Knot Mini Macrame Ornament
- Ornament Design #2: Diagonal Half Hitch Mini Macrame Ornament
- Finishing Techniques
- Customization Ideas
- Creative Ways to Display Your Macrame Ornaments
- Expert Tips for Perfect Macrame Ornaments
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More DIY Christmas Craft Ideas
A Quick Look At This Craft
- 📋 Craft: Mini Macrame Christmas Ornaments (2 Designs)
- ⏲️ Time: 30-45 minutes per ornament
- 🎄 Difficulty: Beginner (no macrame experience needed)
- 💭 Top Tip: Use a comb or hairbrush to create perfectly fluffy fringe at the bottom of each ornament!
Why You'll Love These Macrame Christmas Ornaments
- Beginner-friendly with only three basic knots to learn.
- Budget-friendly using dollar store rope and small twigs.
- Quick to make once you get the hang of it (perfect TV craft).
- Rustic charm with natural twigs instead of metal rings.
- Gift-worthy as beautiful handmade ornaments or gift toppers.
- Versatile decor for your tree, packages, or boho Christmas aesthetic.
Making your own macrame Christmas ornaments is easier than you think! These mini ornaments look absolutely stunning on our boho Christmas tree, and the best part is that you don't need any macrame experience to make them.
I originally planned these ornaments last year but ran out of time to perfect them. This year I found the perfect inexpensive rope at the dollar store (Dollarama for my Canadian friends), and they turned out exactly how I wanted. They're very affordable to make and relatively easy once you get the hang of it.
If you love handmade Christmas decor, you might also enjoy our DIY Paper Feathers, DIY Birch Wreath, Salt Dough Gingerbread Recipe, DIY Wood Ball Christmas Ornaments, or Boho Christmas Decor Ideas.
What You'll Learn
This tutorial teaches you three essential macrame knots that you'll use over and over in future projects:
- Lark's Head Knot -attaching cords to your base.
- Square Knot -the foundation of most macrame patterns.
- Double Half Hitch Knot -creating diagonal lines and texture.
These basic techniques are beginner-friendly, and I'll walk you through each one with step-by-step photos. Once you learn these knots, they become second nature.
Materials for Macrame Christmas Ornaments
- Macrame cord or rope (3-5mm thickness works best)
- Small twigs (3-4 inches long)
- Hairbrush or comb (for creating fringe)
- Masking tape (optional, to secure to work surface)
- Sharp scissors
- Cord for hanging (embroidery thread, twine, or thin rope)
Choosing Your Cord
The right cord makes all the difference. I used 3-ply rope from the dollar store and unraveled it to single ply before starting. This gives you that beautiful, fluffy fringe at the bottom.
Cord options:
- Twisted cotton rope -affordable, found at dollar stores, creates nice fringe
- Braided macrame cord -smooth and easy to work with for beginners
- Jute twine -rustic look, though can be scratchy on hands
- Colored cord -create ornaments in red, green, or metallic for different looks
How much cord: Each ornament uses six pieces of cord, about 2 feet long each. Start with 15 feet total per ornament to have plenty to work with.
Alternative Materials
Instead of twigs, you could use:
- Metal or wooden rings (though I love the rustic twig look)
- Cinnamon sticks (3-4 inches) for a lovely scent
- Small wooden dowels cut to size
Basic Macrame Knots Reference
Before we start making ornaments, let me introduce the three knots you'll use. Don't worry if they seem confusing at first. Once you tie each one a few times, they become automatic.
Lark's Head Knot
This knot attaches your cord to the twig. Fold your cord in half, loop it over the back of the twig, then pull the two ends through the loop. Pull tight. You'll repeat this six times to get all your cords attached.
Square Knot
This knot uses four cords. Take the left cord and create a "4" shape over the two middle cords. Tuck the left cord under the right cord. Then bring the right cord behind the middle two cords and up through the "4" opening. Pull tight. That's half of a square knot. Now reverse directions (make a backward "4" with the right cord) and repeat. That completes one square knot.
Double Half Hitch Knot
Hold one cord diagonally (your "lead cord"). Take another cord and loop it over and around the lead cord twice, pulling tight after each loop. The key is keeping that lead cord held firmly at an angle while you tie knots around it with the other cords.
How to Make Macrame Christmas Ornaments
Getting Started: Attaching Cords to Your Twig
Before making either ornament design, you need to prepare your base.
1. Prepare your twig
Cut a small twig about 3-4 inches long. If your rope is 3-ply like mine, unravel it first to create single-ply cord. This gives you better fringe later.
2. Cut your cords
Cut six pieces of cord, each about 2 feet long.
3. Attach cords with lark's head knots
Fold one cord in half. Place the folded loop over the back of the twig. Pull the two loose ends through the loop and tighten against the twig.
4. Repeat with all six cords. You now have 12 strands hanging down from your twig.
Ornament Design #1: Square Knot Mini Macrame Ornament
This design uses square knots to create a classic diamond pattern. It's perfect for beginners because the square knot is one of the easiest macrame knots to master.
Row 1: Three Square Knots
1. Create the first square knot. Starting on the left, separate out the first four cords. Using the leftmost cord, create a "4" shape by bringing it over the two middle cords.
2. Tuck the end under the 4th cord.
3. Bring the 4th cord behind the middle cords and up through the "4" opening.
4. Pull tight.
1. Now reverse directions. Take the cord that's now on the left and create a backward "4" (facing right).
2. Tuck it over the 4th cord.
3. Bring the 4th cord behind the middle cords and through the backward "4" opening. 4. Pull tight. You've completed one square knot!
1. Tie two more square knots
Use the next four cords to tie a second square knot.
2. Then use the final four cords to tie a third square knot. You now have three square knots in a row across your piece.
Row 2: Two Square Knots Offset for diamond pattern
3. Leave the first two cords hanging. Take the next four cords (cords 3-6) and tie a square knot. Take cords 7-10 and tie another square knot. Leave the last two cords hanging. You've created the offset that forms the diamond pattern.
Row 3: One Square Knot Center square knot
4. Skip the first four cords. Use the center four cords (cords 5-8) to tie one square knot. This creates the center point of your diamond.
Row 4: Mirror Row 2 -2 Square Knots
Repeat the pattern from row 2. Leave two cords out on each side, tie two square knots with the remaining cords.
Row 5: Three Square Knots Final Row
Repeat the pattern from row 1. Tie three square knots across all 12 cords.
Row 6: Half Hitch Border Create horizontal border
1. Take the first cord on the left and hold it horizontally across the piece (this is your lead cord).
2. With the second cord, tie two half hitches around the lead cord: loop over, through, and pull tight.
3. Do this twice.
4. Continue with each cord across the row, always tying around that first horizontal lead cord. Pull the lead cord to tighten everything.
Finishing the Ornament
1. Cut the hanging cords to your desired length (about 1-2 inches works well). We did a "v" pattern.
2. Use a hairbrush or fine-tooth comb to brush out each cord strand, creating fluffy fringe. Re-trim if needed to create a clean edge.
3. Trim the twig ends.
4. Cut a piece of cord about 6-8 inches long and tie it around one end of the twig for hanging.
The second of our macrame projects, I made was using the diagonal half hitch. It's another one of the basic knots, and much like the half hitch we used on the first DIY macrame Christmas ornaments , just at a diagonal.
Ornament Design #2: Diagonal Half Hitch Mini Macrame Ornament
This design creates a beautiful chevron "V" pattern using diagonal half hitch knots. It looks more intricate than it is, making it perfect for impressing friends while still being beginner-friendly.
After attaching your six cords to a twig (just like we did above), you're ready to create the diagonal pattern.
The first cord will be your lead cord, holding it at a diagonal this time instead of horizontally, loop the 2nd cord up and over it, and through the hole you've created. Then do that again with the 2nd cord to complete the half hitch knot.
1. Holding the lead cord firmly at a diagonal, tie a half hitch with the 3rd cord slightly lower down, on the diagonal of your lead cord.
Repeat this for the first 6 cords.
Then pick up the last cord, the 12th cord on the far right, and use it as the lead cord and tie half hitches from the other direction to meet in the centre.
Row 2-3
2. For row 2, repeat the same as row 1. But this time when you meet up in the centre, you can use the cord from the other side to link the 2 sides of the "V" together.
3. To finish the ornament, trim the edges of the cord along the bottom, and brush out the fringe just like the first one.
4. Finally trim the twig ends and add a hanging cord to the top of the ornament.
Finishing Techniques
The finishing touches make your macrame Christmas ornaments look professional and polished.
Creating Perfect Fringe
Brushing method: Use a fine-tooth comb or hairbrush to separate the cord fibers. Work slowly and gently to avoid pulling cords out of your knots. The more you brush, the fluffier and more feathered your fringe becomes.
Trimming tips: After brushing, the fringe may look uneven. Use sharp scissors to trim it into your desired shape. You can create:
- Straight edge across the bottom
- Downward "V" shape
- Upward "V" shape
- Curved scallop edge
Adding Hanging Cords
Cut a piece of macrame cord, embroidery thread, or twine about 6-8 inches long. Tie it around one end of your twig, creating a loop for hanging. You can also:
- Thread it through the top of your macrame pattern
- Use colored or metallic thread to add visual interest
Customization Ideas
Once you master these two basic designs, get creative with variations:
Color Options
Traditional Christmas:
- Red and white cord for candy cane vibes
- Green cord with gold beads
- White cord for snowy elegance
Boho Christmas:
- Natural beige or cream (my favorite)
- Terracotta and cream combination
- Dusty rose and sage green
Size Variations
Mini ornaments: Use shorter twigs (2 inches) and fewer rows for tiny tree ornaments
Large ornaments: Use longer twigs (5-6 inches) and add more rows for statement pieces
Wall hangings: Scale up significantly for macrame wall decor
Embellishment Ideas
Add personality to your ornaments:
- Metallic thread woven through the pattern
- Wooden beads threaded onto cords before knotting
- Cinnamon sticks instead of twigs for scent
- Dried orange slices attached to the top
- Small bells tied into the fringe
To change the look of your final product, or to mix and match, try using different coloured pieces of cord. Use red to make red ornaments for a pop of color on your tree, or any colour that matches your Christmas decor. You could also try macrame yarn, or any thick and chunky piece of yarn in any colors.
Creative Ways to Display Your Macrame Ornaments
These handmade ornaments are so versatile:
- On your Christmas tree: The obvious choice, but they look absolutely stunning mixed with other natural ornaments like wood slices and dried orange.
- As gift toppers: Attach them to wrapped presents instead of a bow. Your gift becomes extra special, and the ornament is a bonus gift.
- Create a garland: Make 6-8 ornaments and string them together for a boho Christmas garland over a mantel or doorway.
- Window decorations: Hang them at varying lengths in a window for a beautiful display that catches light.
- Napkin Rings: Use small versions as napkin rings for your Christmas dinner table.
- Hostess gifts: Package 2-3 ornaments together in a small box as a thoughtful handmade gift.
- Year-round decor: These look beautiful in a nursery or kid's room even after the holidays.
Expert Tips for Perfect Macrame Ornaments
After making dozens of these ornaments over the years, here are my top tips:
- Cord preparation matters. If you're using 3-ply twisted rope, unwind it to single ply before you start. This creates much better fringe and is easier to work with for small projects.
- Keep tension consistent. The most common beginner mistake is tying some knots super tight and others loose. Aim for even tension throughout, and your pattern will look much more professional.
- Use masking tape. Tape your twig to your work surface while you're knotting. This keeps everything stable and makes tying much easier.
- Cut cords longer than you think. It's better to have extra cord to trim off than to run short. I always add an extra 6 inches beyond what I think I need.
- Practice your knots first. Before diving into an ornament, practice each knot a few times with scrap cord. Once your hands understand the motion, the actual project goes much faster.
- Dollar store cord works great. Don't feel like you need expensive macrame cord for these small projects. Dollar store rope works perfectly and unravels beautifully for fringe.
- Make them in batches. Once you get the rhythm, these are perfect for making multiple ornaments in one sitting. Put on a movie and knock out a whole set.
- Barbie-sized bonus! These are actually the perfect size for Barbie dollhouse wall hangings. My girls figured this out immediately and were eyeing them for their dollhouses!
Frequently Asked Questions
For beginners, I recommend 3-5mm cotton rope or cord. Twisted rope (like I used from the dollar store) creates beautiful, fluffy fringe when brushed out. Braided cord gives a smoother, more polished look. Both work well, so choose based on the aesthetic you prefer.
Not at all! I designed this tutorial for complete beginners. If you can tie your shoes, you can learn these three basic knots. The step-by-step photos walk you through each knot, and once you practice a few times, they become second nature.
Your first ornament might take 45-60 minutes as you learn the knots. Once you get the hang of it, you can finish one in 20-30 minutes. They're perfect for making while watching TV or as a relaxing evening craft.
Absolutely! Red and white cord creates a candy cane look, green cord feels traditional, and metallics add sparkle. You can even use a variegated (color-changing) cord for an ombre effect. The natural beige I used creates that rustic boho vibe I love.
Dollar stores often carry inexpensive rope that works perfectly for small projects. Craft stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby or Walmart have dedicated macrame cord sections. Online, Amazon has tons of options in different colors and thicknesses. For these small ornaments, one roll of cord makes many ornaments.
Yes! Metal or wooden rings (1.5-2 inches diameter) work beautifully. I personally love the rustic look of twigs, but rings give a more polished appearance and are perfectly round. You can find small wooden rings at craft stores or online.
This usually means inconsistent tension. Try to pull each knot with the same amount of pressure. If knots slide around, pull them tighter before moving to the next one. Using masking tape to secure your twig while working helps maintain consistent tension.
Definitely! Use a longer twig or dowel (5-6 inches), attach more cords (8-10 instead of 6), and add more rows of knots. The same techniques work for any size. Larger ornaments work beautifully as wall hangings or statement tree decorations.
Kids ages 8-10 and up can definitely learn these knots with guidance. It's a great fine motor skill activity. Younger kids might struggle with the dexterity needed, but they can help with brushing out the fringe and choosing colors.
I used cord or embroidery thread tied around the twig. You can also use ornament hooks, though I prefer the handmade look of tied cord. For a rustic touch, use jute twine or natural string that matches your ornament.
More DIY Christmas Craft Ideas
If you try these macrame Christmas ornaments or any other craft ideas on my blog, please let me know how it went in the comments below. I'd love to see photos of your finished ornaments! Thanks for visiting today!
How to Make Mini Macrame Christmas Ornaments
Equipment
- Hairbrush or comb
- sharp scissors
Materials
- macrame cord or rope (3-5 mm thickness)
- 2 small twigs (3-4 inches long)
Instructions
Getting Started
- Cut a small twig 3-4 inches long. If using 3-ply rope, unwind to single ply.
- Cut six pieces of cord, each about 2 feet long.
- Attach each cord to the twig using lark's head knots: fold cord in half, loop over twig back, pull ends through loop. You now have 12 strands.
Square Knot Ornament
- Row 1: Separate first 4 cords. Create square knot by making "4" shape with left cord, tucking under right cord, bringing right cord behind middle cords through "4" opening. Reverse and repeat. Make 3 square knots across.
- Row 2: Leave first 2 cords out. Tie 2 square knots with remaining cords. Leave last 2 cords out.
- Row 3: Skip first 4 cords. Tie 1 square knot with center 4 cords.
- Row 4: Repeat Row 2 pattern (2 square knots, sides left out).
- Row 5: Repeat Row 1 pattern (3 square knots across).
- Row 6: Hold first cord horizontally. Tie double half hitches with each cord around it.
- Trim cords to 1-2 inches. Brush out fringe with comb. Trim twig ends and add hanging cord.
Diagonal Half Hitch Ornament
- Take first cord on left as lead cord. Hold diagonally.
- With second cord, tie 2 half hitches around lead cord (over, through, pull tight twice).
- Continue tying double half hitches with cords 3, 4, 5, 6 down the diagonal.
- Take last cord on right as lead cord. Hold diagonally opposite direction.
- Tie double half hitches with cords 11, 10, 9, 8, 7 toward center.
- Join lead cords in center with half hitch to complete V shape.
- Repeat rows 11-16 for second V pattern. 18. Trim cords into V shape or straight edge. Brush fringe. Trim twig ends and add hanging cord.
Notes
- Keep tension consistent. The most common beginner mistake is tying some knots super tight and others loose. Aim for even tension throughout, and your pattern will look much more professional.
- Use masking tape. Tape your twig to your work surface while you're knotting. This keeps everything stable and makes tying much easier.
- Cut cords longer than you think. It's better to have extra cord to trim off than to run short. I always add an extra 6 inches beyond what I think I need.
Sarah says
So sweet! I'll be making lots of these for Christmas garlands. Thank you.
dnr says
Natasha, thank you so much.
Dannyelle
Natasha says
These are so cute and boho! I love them!
dnr says
Ellen, totally do-able. You got this. 😉
Dannyelle
dnr says
Tauni, thanks so much. You won't want to deny them the joy of creating their own. 😉
Dannyelle
dnr says
Krista, thanks so much. Luckily macrame is so easy. 😉
Dannyelle
dnr says
Danielle, thanks so much.
Dannyelle
Danielle says
Love these so much!
Krista says
These are adorable. Looks like I need to get practicing my macrame. Thanks for sharing and being a part of the blog hop!
Tauni says
These little macrame ornaments are gorgeous. If I was truly a good sister I would make a bunch for my brother and sister in law - they'd go perfectly on their tree. Instead, I am just going to send them a link to your blog. Thanks for making my life easier 🙂
Ellen from Ask Away Blog says
OK so I've been wanting to learn macramé but wasn't sure if it would be hard or not but just seeing how this one is done it seems like something I can handle!!!