A714 Knotted Macramé Bag

How to Make a Knotted Macramé Bag

Create a reusable knotted market bag using simple macramé techniques. This quick project uses a series of square knots to form an open mesh, making it ideal for carrying fruit, vegetables, bread or other lightweight items.

What You Will Need

Materials

• Macramé cord

Equipment

• Coat hanger or macramé hanging rail
• Sharp scissors
• Comb
• Measuring tape

Prepare the Cord

1. Cut two lengths of macramé cord measuring 1.5 metres each.
2. Cut 20 additional lengths of cord measuring 2 metres each.
3. Place the two 1.5-metre lengths together and knot the ends to form a continuous loop. This loop will become the handles of the bag.
4. Place the knotted loop over a coat hanger or hanging rail.

Attach the Working Cords

5. Fold each of the 2-metre lengths in half.
6. Attach each folded cord over the handle loop using a lark's head knot or another secure mounting knot.
7. Space the cords evenly so there are 10 folded cords on each side of the hanger.

Create the Knotted Mesh

Row 1

Measure approximately 4 cm down from the top of the bag. Divide the cords into groups of four and create five square knots on each side of the bag, making 10 square knots in total.

Row 2

Measure approximately 4 cm below the first row. Offset the knots by leaving two strands loose at each outer edge, then use groups of four cords to work four square knots on each side.

At each end, join the two sides of the bag by working one square knot using the four adjacent strands. This begins forming the bag into a continuous shape.

Rows 3–10

Continue working offset square knots, spacing each row approximately 4 cm apart.

Alternate the knot placement from one row to the next to create the open diamond-shaped mesh. Check the spacing regularly so the bag remains even on both sides.

Close the Bottom of the Bag

1. Once the mesh section is complete, bring the matching strands together at the lower edge.
2. Knot two strands together at each end.
3. Between these end knots, join groups of four strands to close the bottom of the bag securely.
4. Check that there are no large gaps through which the contents could fall.

Create the Fringe

1. Trim the remaining cord ends to an even length.
2. Use a comb to separate and soften the cord fibres.
3. Trim the fringe again where necessary to create a neat, even finish.

Alternative Cords for This Project

The original project uses macramé cord, but several other materials can be substituted depending on the desired look, strength and finish.

• 3 mm twisted cotton cord – a versatile choice that is easy to knot and can be combed out to create a soft fringe.
• 3–4 mm single-strand cotton cord – creates a softer, more relaxed bag with a fuller fringe.
• 3 mm braided cotton cord – provides greater strength and a clean, modern finish, although it will not brush out as easily.
• Recycled cotton cord – a sustainable option that works well for reusable shopping and produce bags.
• Jute twine – creates a rustic, natural look, but may feel rougher and can shed fibres while being worked.
• Strong cotton yarn or multiple strands of cotton – may be used for a lighter bag, provided the combined strands are strong enough to hold the intended contents.

Choosing the Right Cord

For the closest result to the original project, use a 3 mm twisted or braided cotton macramé cord. Twisted cord is ideal when you would like a soft brushed fringe, while braided cord is better for a firmer and more durable shopping bag.

Cord thickness will affect the size and weight of the finished bag. A thicker cord will create a larger, sturdier bag, while a finer cord will produce a lighter and more flexible finish. Maintain consistent 4 cm spacing between the rows to preserve the shape of the mesh.

Finishing and Care

Check every knot before using the bag and tighten any loose sections. Hand wash gently in cool water, reshape while damp and allow the bag to dry flat or hang without weight inside it.

Avoid carrying sharp or excessively heavy objects unless the cord and lower knots have been reinforced.