I have quite a few macrame tutorials (all free!) on my blog, but with so many beginners joining the modern macrame movement, I thought a post for beginners would be helpful. So many designs, so many knots, where to start? With the basic Square Knot. But the beauty is this. There are several variations of the Square Knot that, once mastered, will enable you to make some beautiful projects. So before trying to learn some of the more intricate techniques, start here – with the first macrame knots a beginner should learn.
half square knot
The Half Square Knot is exactly what it says – the first half of a Square Knot.
half square spiral
Now here’s the magic. If you can make the simple Half Square Knot, you can make a whimsical Half Square Spiral (also called a Half Square Sennit) just by tying a vertical chain of Half Square Knots. Take a look at the video below to see how it’s done.
square knot
Now let’s take it one step further and learn to complete a full Square Knot.
square knot sennit
Now that you’ve mastered the Square Knot, simply tie a vertical chain of full Square Knots, one right below the other, and BAM! You have a Square Knot Sennit. The difference between the Square Knot Sennit and the Half Square Sennit is that this one hangs straight and does not spiral. This video also demonstrates this technique.
alternating square knot
Finally, it’s important to understand Alternating Square Knots. Beneath a horizontal row of Square Knots, tie another horizontal row of Square Knots placing the knots in between the knots above. See photo below.
see it in action
Here are some of my favorite tutorials using the techniques you’ve just learned! The simple wall hanging below is made with only Square Knots and Alternating Square Knots.
This sweet heart tapestry is comprised of only Square Knots and Half Square Spirals.
And this dip-dyed wall hanging demonstrates a creative use of Square Knot Sennits at the top and Half Square Spirals at the bottom.
The biggest compliment is a little share – pin the photo below!
