Macrame Essentials covers several topics you
must become familiar with, in order to be
successful in your Macrame projects.
Be sure to read through ALL the topics in this
section of Free Macrame Patterns, especially
if you are a beginner.
Macrame is more than simply tying knots. You
need to know how to prepare and finish off the
cords, choose the right beads, and know which
type of cord material to purchase.
Unless you have a pattern, you may need to
calculate cord lengths on your own, so there is
a page to show you how.
Each page in this section gives you IMPORTANT
information, so take your time reading.
When you are finished, go to the Dictionary
to learn the abbreviations and terms related to
Macrame.
Then you will be ready to start practicing the
knots, located in the Learn Macrame
section. When you feel you are ready,
visit the other areas to choose a pattern to
work on.
Click on the blue links (or
images) to go to the page described:
Macrame
Supplies describes the
items you need to get before you begin
every Macrame project.
Projects boards, tools, glue and other
items are all described on this page.
Part of
learning the Macrame essentials is to
understand the qualities of the different
types of cord materials available today.
Natural
Materials are fibers made
from plants and animals. Jute, Hemp,
Cotton, Flax, Silk and Leather are
described on this page.
Olefin, Polyester, Nylon, Satin and more
are on this page.
The Cross
Pin Technique is a unique
way to secure cords without passing pins
through the material.
Cord
Measurements describes the
steps for determining how much material
you need for your projects. Macrame
patterns do not always have that
information.
It is a bit complicated, but everyone new
to Macrame should read this important page
at least once.
Cord
Preparation describes
several methods for
treating the cords so they don't fray
while you work with them.
Finishing
Techniques are methods for
securing the cords at the completion
of your projects.
This includes instructions on how to
make attractive fringes, as shown in
this image.
Adding
Cords teaches you several
ways to attach new cords to those already
in use.
Decorative
Fasteners gives you ideas
on how to make clasps for jewelry, belts,
and purse straps.
Macrame
Beads gives you information
about the types of beads you can use with
3mm
to 6mm cord materials.