How to Make a Macramé Christmas Tree Ornament (Pipa Knot Tutorial)
Updated 2026 · 8 min read
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How to Make a Macramé Christmas Tree Ornament (Pipa Knot Tutorial)
- Phase 1 — Tie 10 pipa knots from 60 cm pieces of 3 mm cotton cord, trimming and hot-gluing each one so they hold their bulb shape.
- Phase 2 — Build the tree by gluing 5 pipa knots onto a 1.25" wooden ring (bottom row), then 5 more nestled into the gaps (second row).
- Phase 3 — Add the hanger and star by tying overhand knots in a thin string with a star bead, then threading it down through the top of the tree.
- Phase 4 — Insert the trunk and finish by pushing a cinnamon stick up through the center, gluing everything in place, and trimming stray cord ends.
Total time: 1–2 hours · Finished size: 2" × 4.5" · Skill level: confident beginner · Cost per ornament: under $5
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Save this macramé Christmas tree ornament guide to your Pinterest holiday board so you can come back to it.
Save to PinterestWhat You'll Learn
Tutorial Contents
- What is a macramé Christmas tree ornament?
- What is the pipa knot?
- Project details (skill, size, time)
- Materials & tools you'll need
- Step-by-step tutorial (7 steps)
- Variations & customization ideas
- Pro tips for a clean finish
- Common mistakes & how to fix them
- Ways to use your finished ornament
- Christmas tree ornament FAQ
- Your next macramé Christmas project
- Keep learning with Bochiknot
What Is a Macramé Christmas Tree Ornament?
A macramé Christmas tree ornament is a small decorative tree made entirely from a single repeating knot — the pipa knot — stacked into a triangular silhouette and attached to a small wooden ring. A cinnamon stick forms the trunk and a tiny star bead sits on top as the topper. The whole ornament hangs from a thin cord loop.
What makes this project so beloved during the holidays:
- Beginner-friendly. You only need to learn one knot (the pipa knot) and the rest is gluing and arranging.
- Budget-friendly. Total materials cost is under $5 per ornament. A spool of cord makes 10+.
- Giftable. Each tree takes 1–2 hours to make, which is perfect for handmade holiday gifts, gift toppers, and stocking stuffers.
- Scented. The cinnamon stick trunk adds a warm, subtle holiday scent that lasts for weeks.
- Customizable. Try different cord colors, ring sizes, beads, and trunk materials to make each one unique.
What Is the Pipa Knot?
The pipa knot (sometimes spelled pipa or pi pa) is a decorative knot made from a series of nested loops that taper from a wide rounded base into a pointed top. It's named for its resemblance to the Chinese pipa instrument — pear-shaped at the bottom, narrow at the top.
In macramé, the pipa knot is used decoratively because its bulb-like shape stacks beautifully when multiple knots are arranged together — which is exactly what gives the Christmas tree ornament its layered triangular silhouette. The knot is not structurally locking on its own, so each finished pipa knot is sealed with a small dab of hot glue on the back to hold its shape permanently.
Project Details
Materials & Tools You'll Need
Materials
3 mm 3-ply Macramé Cord
10 pieces × 60 cm (24") each — rainbow or natural cream both work beautifully
Shop cord1.5–2 mm Thin Macramé String
For the hanging loop — thin enough to fit through small bead holes
Shop thin string1.25" Wooden Ring
The base of the tree — provides structure for the pipa knots to glue onto
Shop ringsSmall Star Bead
Used as the topper — choose one with a small hole that fits 1.5 mm string
Shop star beadsHot Glue Gun + Sticks
Standard mini hot glue gun and clear glue sticks for sealing knots
Get on AmazonTools
- Sharp macramé scissors — for clean cord ends
- Hot glue gun (mini works fine)
- Optional: a small flat work surface (parchment paper helps with cleanup)
📌 Save this for craft fair planning
Pin this to your craft fair or Etsy seller board to remember the bulk-make math.
Save to PinterestStep-by-Step Tutorial
Follow the 7 steps below. Each has a photo and clear bullet instructions. If you get stuck on any step, the video at the top of the page walks through every step in real time.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
- Start by collecting all your supplies.
- This small project is budget-friendly and perfect for using up leftover cord and embellishments you already have on hand.
Step 2: Master the Pipa Knot
The pipa knot is the star of this ornament. Each knot creates a rounded, bulb-like shape that stacks together to form your tree's silhouette — imagine tiny ornamental lights arranged in a triangular pattern.
Since pipa knots aren't structurally secure on their own, you'll seal each one with hot glue on the back.
How to tie a pipa knot:
- Cut a 60 cm (24") cord (adjust length for larger or smaller "bulbs").
- Fold the cord to create a short tail at the back.
- Weave the working end from front to back, forming a loop at the bottom.
- Create four successive loops inside each other — this rounds the bottom and tapers the top.
- Thread the working end through the bottom middle hole.
- Pull it through to the back to close the knot.
Step 3: Secure and Tidy Each Knot
Clean finishing makes your ornament look professional and ensures the knots glue together smoothly.
For each pipa knot:
- Trim the cord ends at the back, keeping them short and neat.
- Pull the top loop until only a small opening remains.
- Apply a dab of hot glue to the back to seal the ends and maintain the shape.
Repeat this process to create 10 pipa knots total — 5 for the bottom row and 5 for the middle row. Adjust the quantity if you're using a different ring size.
Step 4: Attach the First Row
Now you'll start building your tree shape by attaching the first row of pipa knots around your wooden ring.
Assembly instructions:
- Position five pipa knots around the lower portion of the ring, angling them upward to create the tree's triangular silhouette.
- Apply hot glue to the back of each knot.
- Press firmly onto the ring's side, slanting toward the top.
- Place knots side by side; overlap slightly if needed for a full appearance.
Step 5: Build the Second Layer
The second row adds dimension and fills in gaps between the bottom knots.
- Create five more pipa knots using the same technique.
- Glue these knots between the gaps in the bottom row.
- Position them to nestle naturally and enhance the layered, tree-like shape.
Step 6: Create the Hanging Loop and Star Topper
Time to add the finishing touches that transform your ornament into a displayable decoration.
Assembly steps:
- Cut a 50 cm length of thin string (1–1.5 mm).
- Tie an overhand knot near one end to create the hanging loop.
- Thread your star bead below this knot so it sits above the tree.
- Tie a second overhand knot beneath the bead to lock it in place.
- Feed the string top-down through the center of your tree, positioning the star just above the top row of knots.
Step 7: Add the Trunk and Final Touches
A cinnamon stick trunk adds a natural element and a subtle holiday scent to your ornament.
Finishing steps:
- Insert the cinnamon stick from the bottom, pushing it up through the tree's center.
- Leave a small portion visible below as the trunk, with the thicker end resting above the bottom row.
- Apply hot glue at the top to secure the pipa knots to the stick and to each other.
- Glue the hanging string into the top knot area.
- Trim any excess string at the bottom.
- Clean up any stray fibers for a polished finish.
Variations & Customization Ideas
Once you've made one tree ornament, the design is endless. Try one of these variations:
Natural Cream Classic
Cream 3 mm 3-ply cord with a gold star bead and natural cinnamon stick — timeless boho holiday look.
Rainbow / Multicolor
Rainbow twist 3-ply cord for festive playful trees — perfect for kids' rooms and gift toppers.
Metallic Accent
Metallic mix cord (cream with gold thread) and a silver star bead for an elegant statement ornament.
Mini Cluster
Make 3–5 mini trees with a 1" ring and 6 pipa knots each — beautiful as a small garland.
Statement Tree
Use a 2" ring with 15+ pipa knots in 3 rows for a centerpiece ornament that doubles as table decor.
No-Cinnamon Version
Swap the cinnamon stick for a small wooden dowel or knotted cord trunk for fragrance-sensitive recipients.
Pro Tips for a Clean, Professional Finish
- Cord selection: 3 mm 3-ply cord works best — it holds the pipa knot shape beautifully and glues cleanly without excessive fraying.
- Use parchment paper under your work. Hot glue drops are inevitable; parchment lets you peel them off cleanly.
- Tighten the top loop hard. A loose top makes the tree look puffy at the top instead of pointy.
- Glue knots one at a time, not all at once. Hot glue cools fast — apply, press, hold, then move to the next.
- Trim cord ends BEFORE gluing. Trimming after the glue has set is much harder.
- Steam the finished tree. A 5-second hover with a fabric steamer (don't touch the cord) relaxes any fraying and gives the finished ornament a polished look.
- Press the cinnamon stick gently. Too much pressure and the cinnamon stick can crack — slow and steady wins.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
| Mistake | What happens | How to fix it |
|---|---|---|
| Pipa knots come undone after gluing | The knot loosens once the glue cools | Press and hold for 10 full seconds after applying glue — don't release early |
| Tree looks lopsided | One side has more knots or knots are angled differently | Always work in pairs (one knot on left, one mirrored on right) and check alignment after every knot |
| Bottom row is too wide | Knots placed too far apart on the ring | Position knots touching each other, slightly overlapping if needed |
| Top of tree looks flat instead of pointy | Second-row knots weren't nestled between the bottom row | Place second-row knots in the GAPS between bottom knots, not directly above them |
| Cinnamon stick won't go through the center | Bottom row knots are too tight against each other | Gently push knots apart with the cinnamon stick — slow and rotating |
| Star bead won't stay above the tree | Overhand knot below the bead isn't tight enough | Tie the second overhand knot snugly under the bead; pull both ends to lock |
| Hot glue shows on the front | Too much glue applied or glue dripped during assembly | Use minimum glue (a single small dot); have a damp Q-tip nearby to wipe excess immediately |
Ways to Use Your Finished Macramé Tree Ornament
- Christmas tree ornament — the original design, perfect for any tree style
- Gift package topper — tie to wrapped presents in place of a bow for a luxurious handmade touch
- Mini garland — string 5–10 ornaments along a thin cord for a window or mantle garland
- Holiday wreath accent — wire a few onto a wreath base for a layered seasonal look
- Stocking stuffer — beautifully gifted alone or in a small batch of 3
- Place card holder — tuck a name card behind the cinnamon stick trunk for holiday dinner table place settings
- Hostess gift — a thoughtful, handmade holiday host or hostess present
- Holiday market product — these sell beautifully at craft fairs at $8–$15 each
Macramé Christmas Tree Ornament FAQ
What is a macramé Christmas tree ornament?
A macramé Christmas tree ornament is a handcrafted decorative tree made from a series of stacked pipa knots tied in cotton macramé cord. The knots are arranged on a small wooden ring in a slanted triangular shape and finished with a cinnamon stick trunk and a tiny star bead topper. The finished ornament hangs from a thin cord loop and measures approximately 2 inches wide by 4.5 inches long.
What is the pipa knot?
The pipa knot is a decorative macramé knot made from a series of nested loops that taper from a rounded base into a pointed top. It's named for its resemblance to the Chinese pipa instrument — pear-shaped at the bottom, narrow at the top. The pipa knot is used decoratively because its bulb-like shape stacks beautifully into the layered triangular silhouette of a Christmas tree.
How many pipa knots do I need to make one ornament?
For a 1.25 inch wooden ring you'll make 10 pipa knots total: 5 for the bottom row and 5 for the middle row. Adjust this number when using different ring sizes — about 5 knots per inch of ring diameter is a good rule of thumb.
Is hot glue necessary for this project?
Yes. This design relies on hot glue to hold the pipa knots together, attach them to the wooden ring, secure the cinnamon stick trunk, and lock the hanging string in place. The pipa knot is not structurally self-locking, so glue is essential. If you prefer a no-glue project, consider a different design that uses structural macramé knots.
What's the best cord for a macramé Christmas tree ornament?
3 mm 3-ply cotton cord is ideal because it maintains the pipa knot shape, glues cleanly without excessive fraying, and shows the layered tree silhouette beautifully. Single-strand cord works too but tends to fray more at the trimmed ends. Avoid acrylic or polyester cord because it does not hold the knot shape as well.
Can I scale this pattern to make different-sized trees?
Yes. Increase the wooden ring diameter and add more pipa knots per row for a larger statement ornament, or reduce both for a miniature version. A 1 inch ring with 6 knots makes a delicate mini tree; a 2 inch ring with 15+ knots makes a centerpiece ornament. Keep proportions consistent for the best results.
How long does it take to make one macramé Christmas tree ornament?
Beginners should expect 1 to 2 hours from start to finish for their first ornament. With practice, you can complete one in 30 to 45 minutes. The slowest steps are tying the 10 pipa knots and gluing them onto the ring — both get significantly faster after your second or third ornament.
Can I make these without a cinnamon stick?
Yes. Swap the cinnamon stick for a small wooden dowel, a knotted cord trunk made from extra macramé cord, or simply leave the trunk out entirely. The cinnamon stick adds a holiday scent and natural texture, but the tree shape works without it.
How much does it cost to make a macramé Christmas tree ornament?
Total materials cost is under $5 per ornament — roughly $2 for cord (one ornament uses about 6 meters of 3 mm 3-ply cord), $0.50 for the wooden ring, $0.50 for the star bead, $0.25 for the cinnamon stick, and $0.50 for the hot glue. In bulk, materials cost drops to about $3 per ornament, and they typically sell for $8 to $15 at craft fairs and on Etsy.
Can I sell macramé Christmas tree ornaments I make from this tutorial?
Yes. The finished ornaments you make are yours to sell. You may not copy or republish the tutorial itself, but products you make from your knowledge are completely yours to sell.
What's the easiest macramé Christmas ornament for beginners?
This pipa knot Christmas tree is one of the easiest beginner ornaments because it only requires one knot (the pipa knot) and the rest is gluing and arranging. If you're brand new to macramé entirely, our Macramé for Beginners pillar covers the basics first.
Are macramé Christmas ornaments still popular in 2026?
Yes — handmade boho Christmas decor has remained a strong trend through 2024, 2025, and into 2026. Pinterest searches for "macramé Christmas ornament" have grown consistently year over year, and Etsy listings for handmade macramé holiday decor have increased over 200% since 2022.
Your Next Macramé Christmas Project
Loved making this ornament? Try one of these next:
Macramé Christmas Stocking
A larger holiday project for an heirloom-quality handmade stocking
Browse patterns
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Nicole is the founder of Bochiknot Macramé and has been teaching macramé for over 5 years. She's helped thousands of beginners take their first knot through her tutorials, YouTube channel, Patreon community, and best-selling DIY patterns on Etsy. When she's not knotting, she's photographing every step so you don't have to guess.
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