Cross knot macrame bracelet
- , by Nicole Hellstern
- 13 min reading time
In this tutorial, we'll show you how to create an entire project with just a single knot! Besides the right yarn and a few supplies, all you need for this reef knot macrame bracelet is a little time and patience. We'll explain all the details and guide you carefully, step by step, until your bracelet reaches the desired length. So grab your macrame yarn and get lacing!
Everyone loves stylish bracelets, and what could be better than creating your dream designs in just a few steps? Whether timeless in black with silver beads or in summery bright colors: macrame bracelets are a hit in any season and are a wonderful DIY project for learning basic knots. In this tutorial, we'll show you how to create an entire project with just one knot! Besides the right yarn and a few accessories, all you need for this reef knot macrame bracelet is a little time and patience. We'll explain all the details and guide you carefully, step by step, until your bracelet reaches the desired length. So grab your macrame yarn and get lacing!
Cross knot macrame instructions for unique bracelets
Creating beautiful patterns and creations with one or more cords: Our heart beats for macramé, and we love to continually dedicate ourselves to exciting micro-macramé projects and develop new ideas. It's no surprise that this oriental knotting technique is currently so popular, because in addition to the creative process, knotting offers many other benefits. Macramé reduces stress, promotes concentration, and is great fun at the same time. If you want to build a foundation and quickly celebrate your first successes, choose small projects like our macramé bracelets first. Download our detailed PDF instructions or watch our short video tutorial and create beautiful bracelets for yourself or to give as gifts.
The necessary materials for the reef knot bracelet
You don't need a lot of materials for our square knot bracelet. This project is ideal for beginners who want to get a taste of macramé without buying a lot of yarn and supplies. You should have the following materials ready before you start knotting:
- Linhasita waxed thread (1 mm)
- 1 thread of 0.80 m (carrier thread)
- 2 threads of 0.65 m each (for the left and right sides)
- 1 thread of 0.20 m (for the closure)
- 1 decorative bead
- 4 metal beads (diameter 4 mm)
- Scissors
- Maker equipment : Jewelery STAR and Smart Clamp STAR (optional). Alternatively, you can also use a clipboard for knotting.
You must be able to tie these knots
One bracelet, one knot: For this project, you only need the reef knot. This is the basis of most basic micromacramé patterns and is used not only for bracelets but also for hanging baskets, wall hangings, and much more. You can tie this knot from the left or right, depending on which side you start from. Before you start on the cord, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself a little with the knot. This will help you follow the instructions more quickly. But even if you're unfamiliar with the reef knot, we'll explain each movement in detail with clear pictures, so you'll be able to complete the project with a little practice.
Step by step to the reef knot macrame bracelet
Now you'll learn step by step how to knot your own personalized bracelet from the threads. With our text and images, we've tried to explain the creation process as accurately as possible. If you'd like, you can also download and print the instructions as a PDF file .
-
To get started, you'll need the 0.80 m (2 ft) of carrier thread and your Jewelery STAR. Fold the thread in half to create a loop at the top. This loop will be attached to the swivel hook of the Jewelery STAR, as shown in the image.
- Now thread all the beads onto the two open ends of the thread. If you're having trouble doing this, you can use a lighter to melt the two ends together. This will make threading the beads easier. Then, attach this end to the opposite side of your Jewelery STAR under the washer of the attached wing screws and tighten them to tighten the thread.
-
Your project should now look like the picture. Slide your bead to the center, over the 0 mark on the given scale, and secure one of the 0.65 m long strands with a square knot below the small metal bead (see step 4).
- To make the process more visual, I continue knotting on the clipboard so the knot sequence is easier to see in the pictures. Center the thread below the small metal bead. With the leftmost thread, form a loop by placing the end of the thread over the middle two. The rightmost thread is now placed over this and points downward.
-
Now thread this end behind the middle threads, through the loop created on the left, upwards.
- The first part of the reef knot should now look like the picture.
- Now pull both ends tight so that a small knot forms on the right side.
- Repeat steps four through seven in reverse. This time, form a loop with the rightmost thread by crossing the end of the thread over the middle two threads. Now, place the leftmost thread over the end, pointing downward.
-
Now thread this end behind the middle threads through the loop created on the right.
- The second part of your reef knot should now look like the picture.
- Pull the two ends tight again, this time creating a small knot on the left side.
- A finished macrame reef knot looks like a sideways tilted <or >. To determine the length of your macrame bracelet, it's best to use the scale on the Jewelery STAR. In the example image, I knotted from 0 to 6.
-
Now turn the Jewelery STAR over and, as described above, tie a reef knot on the opposite side with the second thread end (0.65 m). This also starts at the small metal bead and ends at number 6 on the scale. It's best to count to check. You should now have a total of 20 small knots on the left and 19 on the right.
- Now trim the excess ends of both rows of square knots (indicated by the black arrow in the previous image) down to about 2 millimeters and trim the thread ends with a lighter. Avoid burning too long or too close to the thread to avoid breaking the cord or causing unsightly discoloration.
-
In this picture, you can clearly see the left string after the thread end has been trimmed. Gently press the still-liquid wax down with your finger or the end of a lighter to permanently secure it and prevent the thread from slipping out. Be careful, though, as liquid wax can get very hot.
- The bracelet clasp is easiest to knot using the Smart Clamp STAR. Simply loosen the wing screw on the Jewelery STAR and remove the loop from the opposite hook.
- Lay out the bracelet as shown in the picture. Cross both ends of the thread, each consisting of two individual threads.
-
Then you secure the crossed threads using the two clamps.
- To make the clasp adjustable, tie a reef knot connecting the two crossed ends. Use the shorter thread (0.20 m each) to do this. This creates a strand of thread on which you can freely slide the clasp and increase or decrease its circumference.
- Tie three more square knots, cut off the excess close to the edge and neaten the thread ends with the lighter as explained above.
- Here you can see again how close you should get the flame to the thread ends.
-
Now you can remove your bracelet from the clasps and thread a small metal bead onto each side. Secure it with a standard household knot.
- Here are some more inspirations for you.
- Enjoy your new bracelet. If you'd like, share a photo of your finished product with us.
Tip: You can adjust the circumference of the bracelet by increasing the number of square knots on both sides.
Tips and tricks for the success of macrame projects
Do you always see pictures of magical macramé creations, but your projects aren't turning out so well? Here are a few helpful tips to make knotting easier and even more fun:
- Make yourself comfortable while macraméing and gather some snacks and a drink. Before you begin, have all the necessary materials ready to hand.
- Plan enough time for your project, be patient with yourself, and don't rush. Take breaks while working, walk a few steps, and stretch or shake out your hands. If it feels good, you can also circle your wrists and shoulders.
- Beginners, in particular, sometimes reach their limits at the beginning. But before you despair or lose interest in knotting, just contact us. We'll be happy to help!
Do you like our reef knot bracelet but don't have the right materials? You can find all the micro macramé supplies for this and other projects in our online shop .
We hope you have fun being creative!
