Knot Your Way to Style: How to Make a Macrame Crossbody Bag

DIY Macrame Crossbody Bag: Your New Favorite Handmade Accessory

There’s nothing quite like carrying a bag you’ve made with your own hands—especially one as stylish and versatile as this DIY macrame crossbody bag! With its playful tassel and adjustable strap, it’s the perfect mix of boho charm and practicality.

I’m so excited to share this project with you! Whether you’re a macrame beginner or someone who’s already in love with knotting, this bag is a fantastic way to elevate your skills while creating something you’ll actually use. Plus, it’s such a fun way to express your style.

Picture this: a casual day out with friends or running errands with your handmade crossbody bag slung over your shoulder, catching compliments left and right.

And the best part?

When someone asks, “Where did you get that?” you get to proudly say, “I made it!”

In this tutorial, I’ll guide you through every step—knotting the bag, adding a strap, and finishing it off with a tassel that adds just the right amount of flair.

Trust me, this project is as rewarding to make as it is to wear.

Macrame Knots You Need to Know to Make The Boho Macrame Cross Body Bag

If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I always say this: Macrame knots are the heart and soul of every project. Mastering the basics opens the door to endless creative possibilities, and this Boho Macrame Crossbody Bag is no exception!

To create your bag, you’ll need to know a few essential knots:

Square Knot

The Square Knot is a true macrame classic. It’s created by alternately crossing two cords over each other, forming a clean, decorative design.

This knot is the building block for countless patterns and adds both style and structure to your work. It’s the bread and butter of macrame, so if you’re new to knotting, this is a great place to start!

Gathering Knot

The Gathering Knot is like the finishing touch that brings everything together—literally! This wrapping knot is often used at the end of a macrame project to secure multiple cords neatly.

In this bag, it ensures everything looks polished and professional.

Double Half Hitch Knot

Ah, the Double Half Hitch Knot—so versatile and so essential! This knot is the secret to creating clean lines, whether they’re straight, diagonal, or curved.

It’s a go-to for crafting intricate patterns, and you’ll love how it adds both precision and beauty to your design.

Lark's Head Knot

The Lark's Head Knot is your starting point, used to attach cords to your dowel, ring, or clasp. It’s simple yet powerful, providing the secure foundation you need to build your entire project.

Think of it as the anchor that holds everything in place!

These knots form the foundation of this bag and so many other macrame projects. Once you’ve mastered them, you’ll be ready to take on a variety of designs with confidence.

Pro Tip: Practice Makes Perfect

Don’t worry if these knots feel tricky at first—every knotter starts somewhere! Practice them a few times, and before you know it, they’ll become second nature.

Repetition builds confidence, and confidence lets you tackle even the most intricate macrame patterns.

Interested in More Macrame Knots?

If you want to add more knots to your macrame designs, check out my free resource, "50 Macrame Knots & Sennit Guide."

It's packed with easy, step-by-step instructions to help you improve your skills and try new creative projects.

Access it here.

Important Macrame Terms for Beginners

Before we begin, we should review a few important terms used in macrame.

This will help you understand the techniques more easily, follow patterns confidently, and set a strong foundation for your macrame journey.

• Knots: Macrame involves various knots, like the overhand knot and alternating overhand knot. Learning these basic knots is key to building a solid foundation. Check the "Macrame Knots You Need to Know" section for the knots used in this pattern.
• Cords: The primary material in macrame is cords made from cotton, jute, nylon, or synthetic fibers. They come in different thicknesses and colors. You can learn more about macrame cords with our "Macrame ESSENTIALS: Everything You Need—Cord, Tools, & Materials" post.
• Loop: A loop is formed by crossing the cord over itself to create a ring-like shape. Loops are essential in many macrame designs.
• Fringe: The loose ends of cords that hang down, adding a decorative element. The fringe can be left as is or trimmed to your desired length. Want to learn more about fringe? Here's "My Top 5 Secrets for Creating PERFECTLY Styled Fringe" post you might find helpful.
• Anchor Cord: The fixed cord or structure to which other cords are attached. It provides stability and support for your design. 
• Working Cord: The cord that is actively manipulated to create knots and patterns throughout the project.
• Sennit: A series of knots grouped together to form a pattern or part of your macrame project.
• Frays and Tassels: The loose ends of your cords are often used intentionally as decorative elements like frays or tassels in your design.

Materials You’ll Need to DIY Your Boho-Chic Macrame Crossbody Bag

Before you get started on your macrame crossbody bag, let’s make sure you have the right materials to bring this stylish project to life. The key to a sturdy and beautiful bag lies in choosing the right supplies.

 

Cord Selection

For this project, you’ll need a 4mm or 5mm cotton cord.

This thickness is ideal because it provides the structural integrity needed for a functional bag while still allowing you to create intricate, eye-catching macrame patterns.

For our version of the bag, we used:

• 5mm Cotton Cord: This cord is soft, durable, and perfect for crafting the bag’s main structure. 
• 3mm Single-Strand Twist Metallic Cord in Gold: This adds a touch of shimmer and elegance, making the bag both boho and chic. 

Other Supplies

• Wooden Dowel: You’ll need this to mount the cords for the first part of the pattern. It’s an essential tool to help keep everything organized as you work on your knots.
• Lobster Clasp: Used to attach the adjustable strap, ensuring the bag is both secure and functional.

Why These Materials Matter

The right cords and supplies make all the difference when creating a piece that’s both functional and stylish.

The thicker cotton cord ensures your bag is sturdy enough to hold your essentials, while the metallic accent cord adds a pop of glam.

Choosing high-quality materials not only makes the process smoother but also guarantees a finished product you’ll love to carry.

Essential Macrame Tools

You will also need some essential tools:

• Scissors
• Measuring Tape
• Crochet Hook
• Comb

Now that you’ve got your materials ready, it’s time to start knotting your way to a gorgeous boho-chic accessory!

DIY Boho-Chic Macrame Crossbody Bag Pattern Details

Skill level:

• Beginner

Completed Size:

• 8” wide x 2” length x 5” height

Completion time:

• 2-3 hours depending on skill level

Materials Needed (for 1 unit):

• 3mm Macrame Cord
• 5mm Macrame Cord
• 2x Swivel Lobster Clasp

Cord lengths needed:

• 16 x 190 cm (75”)
• 24 x 120 cm (47”)
• 4 x 60 cm (24”)
• 8 x 15 cm (6”)
• 10 x 30 cm (12”) 
• 2 x 650 cm (256”)

How to Make a Macrame Crossbody Bag | Video Tutorial

How to Make a Macrame Crossbody Bag | Step-by-Step Guide

*Note: We recommend following the tutorial video for more detailed instructions and to achieve the best results.

This will provide additional guidance and clarity as you work through each step.

Step 1: Attach Cords to the Dowel

• Cut 16 cords at 190 cm each.
• Attach all cords to the dowel using Lark's Head Knots.
  Pro Tip: For a larger pattern, add more cords in groups of two.

Step 2: Start Knotting

• Measure 1.5 inches below the dowel.
• Tie a row of Square Knots across all cords.

Step 3: Create Alternating Square Knots

• Below the first row, tie a row of Alternating Square Knots.
• Repeat this pattern downward to create a total of 21 rows of Square Knots.

Step 4: Remove the Dowel

• Carefully remove the dowel from the pattern.

Step 5: Add Shorter Cords

• Cut 2 cords at 120 cm each and fold them in half.
• Use these cords to tie 2 individual Square Knots.

Step 6: Connect the Square Knots

• Connect the two Square Knots with an Alternating Square Knot.
• Add 9 more rows of Square Knots below.

Step 7: Repeat for a Second Piece

• Follow the same steps to create a second identical piece.

 

Step 8: Create the Side Panel

• Cut 2 cords at 120 cm each and tie 2 individual Square Knots.
• Connect them, then add more Square Knots until you have 8 columns.

Step 9: Extend the Side Panel

• Add 9 more rows of Square Knots, for a total of 11 rows.

Step 10: Prepare for Assembly

• Cut the loops from the back of the pattern in half to separate the cords.

Step 11: Assemble the Bag

• Use a 60 cm cord to weave the front and back pieces together along one side.
• Secure the bottom with a Double Half Hitch Knot (DHH).
• Repeat the process for the other side and attach all pieces together.
• Turn the bag inside out and seal the bottom cords securely.

Step 12: Create the Bottom Base

• Separate the cords into 4 sections: front, sides, and back.
• Use cords from the sides as anchor cords and cords from the front and back as working cords.

Step 13: Knot the Bottom

• Tie 6 Square Knots along the bottom.

Step 14: Finish the Bottom

• On the opposite end, tie another row of 6 Square Knots, this time facing the opposite direction.

Step 15: Trim Anchor Cords

• Cut off half of the anchor cords.
• Cross the remaining cords and complete the Square Knots.

Step 16: Tighten and Trim

• Pull the anchor cords tight and trim off the excess.

Step 17: Seal the Bottom

• Use a 30-40 cm scrap cord as an anchor and tie a row of Double Half Hitch Knots along the bottom.
• Repeat on the other side.

Step 18:

• Tie a final Double Half Hitch Knot to seal the ends on both sides.

Step 19: Flip the Bag

• Turn the bag inside out for a clean finish.

Step 20: Add Tassels to the Front Flap

• Cut 15 cm strands of 3mm cord and attach them under each Square Knot on the front flap using Gathering Knots.

 

Step 21: Trim the Tassels

• Trim the tassels to your desired length for a neat look.

Step 22: Start the Crossbody Strap

• Cut 2 cords at 650 cm. Fold each cord, leaving a 250 cm end.
• Attach both cords to a lobster clasp using Lark's Head Knots.

Crossbody Strap for Bag | Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions

Step 23: Knot the Strap

• Use a 20-25 cm scrap cord for a Gathering Knot at the start.
• Continue with Square Knots until the strap reaches your desired length.

Step 24: Attach the Other End

• Attach the two cord ends to a second lobster clasp using Vertical Lark's Head Knots.
• Secure the bottom with a Gathering Knot using a 25 cm scrap cord.

Step 25: Final Trims

• Trim off any excess cords for a polished finish.

It's a wrap – Your Chic Boho Macrame Crossbody Bag is finally done!

Congratulations, knotters! 🎉

You’ve just completed your very own boho-chic macrame crossbody bag—a stylish, functional, and totally unique accessory.

From the intricate knots to the playful tassels and adjustable strap, every detail showcases your creativity and hard work.

But the knotting doesn’t have to stop here! If you’re inspired to try more creative projects, check out the Macrame Journey Page for additional patterns, tips, and ideas to fuel your macrame adventures.

Thank you for joining me on this DIY journey—I can’t wait to see your finished bags! Be sure to share your creations and tag me so I can celebrate your hard work.

Until next time, happy knotting and keep creating magic with your hands!