Free-Macrame-Patterns.com Left Side Background Image

Figure Eight Patterns

Description: Figure Eight Patterns form some of the most interesting designs seen in Macrame. The Celtic symbol 8 represents the concept of eternity, because they can literally go on forever. That's what makes these decorative knots so desirable, when used in chains. Single forms are used as finishing knots and for linking cords to one another. But only a chain of Figure Eights will have the interlaced weaving common to all Celtic Knots.

To see a pattern where this Macrame knot is used, check out the Figure Eight Necklace.

You can click on the images and a large picture will come up in a new window.

Other Variations described below: Figure Eight Tuck, Double Cross, and the Vertical and Horizontal Chains.

Figure Eight Knot

The single Figure Eight knot has to be tied so it will hold its shape. It can be used as a finishing knot, near the ends of cords, simply by tightening it all the way. This Macrame knot can also be used to add cords, by passing a second one through the loops. When it's tightened, it grips quite nicely.

Step 1: Obtain a piece of cord to practice, and secure the left end to your work surface. Make a counter-clockwise loop for the bottom half of the Figure 8. Bring the end over the tail. Start the second loop by going under the tail.

Step 2: Bring the cord back down, and direct the end into the bottom loop from the top.

Step 3: Tighten the knot by pulling on both ends equally.

Figure Eight Tuck

The name for this knot refers to the fact that the ends are tucked back into the Figure Eight knot after it is made. That's what makes the horizontal bar in the middle. Figure Eight Patterns like this can be used anywhere on a cord, but are often used near the tips, as a finishing knot.

Step 1: Make a Figure Eight knot as shown. The loops are constructed in the opposite direction as the one described above.

Step 2: Take the lower end and bring it up to the top loop of the Figure 8. Pass it into the loop from below.

Step 3: Take the end at the top and bring it down into the bottom loop. Enter into it from the top.

Step 4: Tighten the knot gradually, by pulling on the ends. Try to hold the knot flat as you remove the slack.

Double Cross

Some Figure Eight Patterns are similar to other types of knots. This one is sometimes called a Fisherman's knot. It's a great way to connect two cords.

Step 1: Lay the filler cord on your work surface (Red). Take a second cord (Blue) and make the first clockwise loop on your right. Go around the filler, passing under, then over it. Make the first cross by passing over the portion of the same cord.

Next, bring the working end towards the left, rotating counter-clockwise. Pass under the filler cord as well as the opposite end of the same cord you are working with.

Step 2: Finish the left loop by passing the working end under the area to the left of the first crossing point. Don't go under both coils, only the top one.

Next, bring the end into the first loop on the right. Enter it from below, crossing over the filler cord that runs through the center of it.

Step 3: Tighten the knot gradually to prevent it from bunching up. It should look like an X shape even when tightened completely.

Vertical Chain

This chain of Figure Eight knots is designed by linking the knots so they rest side by side. The knots themselves are vertically oriented, so when you look at them, they look like the symbol 8. Figure Eight Patterns like this one make great bracelets and necklaces, and are among my favorite techniques to use.

Step 1: obtain a long piece of cord at least 50 inches long. Secure the left end to a Project Board or table.

Step 2: Near the left end, make a clockwise loop for the bottom. Cross under the tail, and secure the loop. Then make another loop for the top, heading counter-clockwise. Pass the end under the first portion of the cord. It should rest above and slightly to the right of the first loop.

Tip: When making Figure Eight Patterns, it's important to make the loops the same size, so the design looks neat.

Step 3: Start the second Figure 8 by directing the cord down to the bottom. Make the clockwise loop, and go through the first lower circle to link the two together. You’ll go into it from below. Remember to cross under the first portion of the cord as you head back up to the top right.

Step 4: Finish by making another counter-clockwise loop at the top. Link the two together by going into thefirst upper loop from below.

Step 5: Continue the Figure Eight Pattern by repeating steps 2 through 4 over and over until you are happy with the length.

Horizontal Figure Eight Chain

This Celtic Knot is designed by laying the loops horizontally, or length-wise, so they link at the rounded part of the loop. Figure Eight Patterns like this are especially useful to make things like belts, plant hangers, and other Macrame designs that require long chains of knots.

Step 1: Obtain a long cord, at least 60 inches in length. Secure the left end to your work surface or Project Board.

Step 2: Make the first clockwise loop approx. 6 inches from the secured tail. Direct the end under the first part of the cord and secure it.

Step 3: Bring the end over the tail and make a second loop, heading counter-clockwise. Direct the end so it rests beneath the first loop. The end should cross the middle section of the curve.

Step 4: Make a large counter-clockwise loop on the right. It should be approximately the same size as the first figure 8 knot. (The photo below shows a closeup of the linked area).

Step 5: To link the two knots, direct the end to the right loop of the previous Figure 8. You’ll go over, under, and over the three coils present.

Step 6: Pick up the bottom portion of the large loop and flip it over the top, so it forms another Figure 8. Next, bring the end underneath it, as in step 3. Then repeat step 4.

Step 7: Continue to repeat steps 4 thru 6, until the chain is as long as you want. When you’re through, tighten the knot slowly, one section at a time. When making jewelry with Figure Eight Patterns, it's best to tighten the knots only slightly, so the overall designs shows up well.

Need Macrame and Craft Supplies? Please visit the official online Store for Free Macrame Patterns. I carry many unique items at reasonable prices. Many items have Free Shipping, and there are plenty of Specials. Click on the Banner:

Have any comments or suggestions about Figure Eight Patterns? Contact Me.

Back To Learn Macrame

Free-Macrame-Patterns.com Footer