How to Make a Macramé Christmas Wreath Ornament (Free Beginner Tutorial + Video)
How to Make a Macramé Christmas Wreath Ornament (Free Beginner Tutorial + Video)
Last updated: 2026-07-03
Quick answer
What you’ll make: A 2–3" mini macramé wreath ornament with metallic cord, a layered ribbon bow, and a star bead accent.
Skill level: Beginner — two knots total.
Time: 30–60 minutes for beginners · under 30 minutes once you’ve made one.
Materials: 2" wooden ring · 3mm metallic cord (~100 cm) · 2mm string · 30 cm ribbon · star bead · scissors.
Cost: About $2 per ornament. Handmade Christmas ornaments on Etsy or Anthropologie run $12–$28 each.
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🎥 Prefer to watch? The full step-by-step video is below — helpful for seeing the vertical lark’s head knot direction in Step 2 before you try it yourself.
What you’ll learn
- Knots you’ll need
- Materials & tools
- Skill, size & specs
- Full video tutorial
- Steps 1–3: Knot the wreath ring
- Steps 4–6: Add the bow, star & hanger
- 10 ways to use these ornaments
- Customize your wreath (color combos & embellishments)
- Make it yourself vs boutique ornaments
- Pro tips & common mistakes
- FAQ
Knots You’ll Need
Just two knots for the whole ornament. If you’ve tied either of these before, you can finish this project in a single sitting.
Overhand & Double Overhand
Attaches the bow, star bead, and hanging loop — the simplest knot in macramé.
See knot library
Never Made Macramé?
Watch the complete beginners guide first — 10 minutes to be fully ready.
Start hereMaterials & Tools
Truly minimal — and every material below is easy to swap based on what you have on hand. This is the perfect project for using up leftover cord scraps from bigger holiday projects.
Cord & Materials
- 1 × 2" wooden ring — the base for the whole ornament. 2–3" rings work best; larger rings make more of a door-hanger scale.
- 3mm metallic macramé cord — about 100 cm for the knotted wreath section. Metallic cord adds shimmer; regular cotton cord gives a boho matte finish.
- 2mm single-strand string — for tying the bow and attaching the star bead. About 60 cm total.
- 30 cm ribbon — for the decorative layered bow. Velvet, satin, or burlap all look beautiful.
- 1 × star bead — ~5mm hole minimum so the string threads through. Wood, brass, or ceramic all work.
Tools
- Sharp fabric scissors — rose gold pair I use daily. Clean cord ends make the finish look polished.
- 1.5mm crochet hook (optional) — helpful for weaving cord ends through the vertical lark’s head knots in Step 3.
- Measuring tape or ruler.
Ornament Details
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Skill level | Beginner — only two knot types, forgiving pattern |
| Completed size | 2–3" diameter — perfect ornament scale |
| Completion time | 30–60 minutes for beginners · under 30 minutes once familiar |
| Materials cost | ~$2 per ornament (after basic supplies) |
| Doubles as | Gift topper, gift wrap accent, or small wall decor |
Full Video Tutorial
Watching Step 2 (the vertical lark’s head knot direction) once on video makes the whole pattern click much faster. If you get stuck, this is the section to rewatch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Six quick steps that cluster into two natural phases: build the knotted wreath, then add the bow and star bead. Each step takes 5–10 minutes.
Steps 1–3: Knot the wreath ring
Step 1: Gather materials
Set up your workspace with everything within reach. Cord scraps make this project practically free — check your leftover drawer first.
- 1x 2-inch wooden ring
- 3mm metallic macrame cord (100 cm for the knotted section)
- 2mm single-strand string for tying and bows
- 30cm ribbon for a decorative bow
- Star bead (about 5mm hole)
- Small crochet hook (1.5 mm) (Optional)
- A pair of sharp scissors (Optional)
Step 2: Make the wreath section with Vertical Lark's Head knots
The vertical lark’s head is the workhorse of this whole ornament. If your first knot feels awkward, undo it and try again — muscle memory kicks in fast.
- Fold one end and start the first half of the vertical Lark's Head knot onto the ring.
- Pull the working end through to finish the knot so the cord faces left.
- For the next knot, start from the opposite side so the cord faces right — continue alternating for an even, stacked look.
- Repeat until you have about an inch of cord left; stop when you run out of length.
Step 3: Weave in and trim cord ends
Weaving in the cord ends is what separates an amateur ornament from a boutique-looking one. Take an extra minute here.
- Use a 1.5 mm crochet hook to pull each cord end through two of the existing loops (one on each side).
- You may need to slightly loosen the last vertical Lark's Head to create slack.
- When both ends are woven through, snip off any excess for a tidy finish.
Steps 4–6: Add the bow, star & hanger
New to macramé? Grab the free beginner guide.
The complete knot library (lark’s head, square, spiral, crown, gathering) with photos and video links — the same reference I keep at my workbench.
Download the free guide →Step 4: Make a layered bow and secure it
The bow is what makes the ornament feel finished. Fold each layer carefully so the loops sit even — asymmetric bows look sloppy no matter how good the wreath is.
- Fold the ribbon to create two paired loops — one slightly larger on top and a second, smaller layer beneath.
- Fold the ribbon ends into small loops so they sit neatly as tails.
- Take a 15 cm strand of 2mm string and tie a tight double overhand knot through the center to secure all layers together.
Step 5: Add the star bead and attach bow to the ring
The star bead is your focal point. Make sure it faces forward and sits centered above the bow so the whole composition balances.
- Thread a 50 cm string through the star bead.
- Tie the string to the top of the wooden ring with a double overhand knot so the star sits facing forward. Add a second star on the back if you want it mirrored on both sides.
- Place the secured bow over the knot and tie another tight double overhand knot on top of the bow to lock it in place.
Step 6: Finish with a hanging knot and trim
The final hanging knot is what lets someone actually put this on a tree. Leave enough loop that it slides over a branch easily.
- With the two remaining string ends at the top, tie a large overhand knot as a hanger loop.
- Trim excess cord close to the knot for a clean finish.
- Your mini macrame Christmas wreath is complete — ready to hang on the tree, attach to a gift, or string across a holiday garland.
10 Ways to Use These Wreath Ornaments
The magic of a small ornament like this: it fits in a dozen different places. Here’s where readers use theirs.
Christmas Tree Ornament
The classic use. Hang directly on a tree branch using the top loop — the ornament is light enough for even thin branches.
Gift Topper
Tie one onto a wrapped present. The recipient gets a keepsake ornament plus their gift — two gifts in one.
Advent Calendar Marker
Hang one on each numbered box or pouch for a texture-rich advent calendar.
Napkin Ring for Holiday Dinner
Slip a rolled linen napkin through the ring for elegant boho table styling.
Wine Bottle Charm
Loop over a wine bottle neck for handmade hostess gift wrap. Way better than a plastic bow.
Wall Cluster
Attach 3–5 to a length of jute or ribbon for a mini garland or wall accent.
Rearview Mirror Accent
Hang one from a rearview mirror for a portable holiday touch. Small enough to not obstruct visibility.
Craft Fair & Market Product
Sells beautifully at $8–$15 each. $2 in materials means a 4–7× markup with a solid profit margin.
Corporate & Client Gifts
Handmade holiday accents elevate any client mailing. Batch a set and personalize with a small ribbon color per client.
Backpack & Bag Charm
Tie one to a kid’s backpack zipper for a festive accent that lasts through December.
Customize Your Wreath
The beauty of this project is how easy it is to make each ornament unique. Here are the swaps I recommend.
Color combinations that always work
| Style | Cord Color | Ribbon & Bead |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Christmas | Gold or silver metallic | Red velvet ribbon + gold star bead |
| Boho Modern | Natural cream cotton | Rust satin ribbon + wooden star bead |
| Scandinavian Winter | Sage green or eucalyptus | White ribbon + ceramic bead |
| Elegant Neutral | Champagne metallic | Ivory silk ribbon + brass star |
| Rustic Farmhouse | Kraft brown or jute | Burlap ribbon + wooden disc bead |
| Playful Kids | Rainbow-mixed cord | Grosgrain polka-dot ribbon + bell bead |
Embellishment swaps
- Instead of a star bead: Try a bell, a wooden snowflake, a pinecone, a dried orange slice, a small ornament, or even a single dried flower.
- Instead of a ribbon bow: Try a raffia bow, a length of eucalyptus tucked into the ring, or wrap the ring with velvet or silk.
- Instead of a wooden ring: Metal rings give a modern, minimalist finish; grapevine wreaths give a rustic-farmhouse look.
- Layer two rings: Nest a 2" ring inside a 3" ring for a double-ring silhouette.
Make It Yourself vs Buy Boutique
Handmade Christmas ornaments from boutique brands are marked up dramatically. Here’s what a comparable macramé or handmade holiday ornament costs.
| Source | Handmade Ornament Price | Set of 12 Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropologie | $18–$28 each | $216–$336 |
| West Elm | $12–$22 each | $144–$264 |
| Etsy (handmade macramé) | $8–$16 each | $96–$192 |
| Pottery Barn | $14–$24 each | $168–$288 |
| Make it yourself | ~$2 each | ~$24 |
Realistic cost breakdown
Starting from scratch with no supplies. Batch of 12 ornaments — enough to decorate a small tree completely.
| Item | Approximate Cost | How Far It Goes |
|---|---|---|
| 2" wooden rings (pack of 12) | $8–$12 | Makes 12 ornaments |
| Metallic 3mm cord (small spool) | $5–$8 | Makes 12+ ornaments |
| Ribbon (2m spool) | $3–$5 | Makes 6–7 bows |
| Star beads (pack of 24) | $4–$7 | Makes 24 ornaments |
| Sharp scissors (one-time) | $8–$15 | Yes — every future project |
| Total for batch of 12 ornaments | ~$28–$47 | — |
| Cost per ornament | ~$2–$4 | — |
Pro Tips for a Cleaner Finish
- Keep vertical lark’s heads tight against each other. Gaps between knots make the wreath look sparse. Push each knot flush against the previous one before tightening.
- Weave cord ends deeply. Two loops of weaving in Step 3 is the minimum. Three is even better and virtually invisible.
- Fold the bow layers before tying. Make both loops the same size by folding the ribbon in half first and measuring against itself before securing.
- Position the star bead OFF-center, slightly up. Placing it a hair above the exact top-center makes the whole ornament feel intentional and boutique-styled.
- Make a batch, not one. Set up your workspace once with all materials laid out, then knock out 6–10 in an afternoon. Each after the first takes half the time.
- Use scrap cord. Old projects always leave odd 20–30cm scraps behind. Perfect length for one wreath ornament.
Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Wreath looks sparse with gaps between knots | Not enough vertical lark’s heads OR the knots weren’t pushed tight against each other. Undo a few and re-tie them flush against each other. |
| Cord ends stick out even after weaving | Weave through more loops. Use a crochet hook to pull the end through 3–4 vertical lark’s head knots before trimming. |
| Bow layers are uneven | You folded the ribbon unevenly. Undo the bow, fold the ribbon in half first, then measure each layer against itself before securing. |
| Star bead slides down or sits crooked | The overhand knots holding the bead weren’t tight enough. Retie them firm and add a second overhand knot for security. |
| Ornament tilts sideways when hung | The hanging loop is off-center. Untie the top overhand knot and retie it exactly at 12 o’clock on the ring. |
What to know before you start
The vertical lark’s head knot direction is where most beginners hesitate on the first ornament. The knot has a left-facing and right-facing form — if you alternate directions accidentally, the wreath looks messy. Watch that segment of the video once before starting. After the first two knots, muscle memory takes over and the rest is smooth. Also — don’t try to make this ornament while tired. It’s a 30-minute project when you’re alert; it becomes a 90-minute frustration when you’re not.
Ready for the next holiday project?
If this ornament clicked and you want more small-format holiday and gifting projects — ornaments, gift toppers, garlands, wreaths, tree skirts — the Bochiknot Patreon library has every project I’ve made in the last five years with downloadable PDF patterns and bonus video walkthroughs.
- Full library of PDF patterns (50+ projects, updated monthly)
- Bonus video walkthroughs for every project
- Monthly community Q&A with Nicole
- Early access to new tutorials before they go public
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💛 Made a batch?
Tag @bochiknot and use #BochiknotProjects on Instagram — I feature reader ornaments every week through the holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make this macramé Christmas wreath ornament?
For beginners, plan 30–60 minutes for your first one. Once you’re familiar with the vertical lark’s head and overhand knots, you can finish each ornament in under 30 minutes.
Is this project beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. The pattern uses only two knot types (vertical lark’s head and overhand) and simple finishing. It’s a great first macramé holiday project — small scope, quick payoff, high visual impact.
What size ring should I use?
A 2-inch wooden ring is the demo size and gives a perfect ornament scale. 3-inch works well too if you want a slightly larger piece. Anything above 4 inches starts feeling more like a small door wreath.
What cord thickness works best?
3mm cord is ideal — thin enough to knot cleanly around a small ring, thick enough to give texture. 2mm cord works for a more delicate look; avoid 4–5mm which becomes bulky on a 2” ring.
What materials can I swap to change the look?
Almost everything. Swap metallic cord for cotton for a boho vibe. Try velvet, satin, or burlap ribbon. Change the star bead for a bell, wooden disc, dried orange slice, or single dried flower. See the customization table above for tested color combos.
Can I make a larger wreath with the same technique?
Yes. Use a larger wooden ring (4”+) and proportionally longer cord. Add more vertical lark’s head knots to cover the ring completely — larger rings need 20–30 knots instead of 10–15.
Can this be used as a gift topper?
Absolutely — that’s one of its best uses. Loop the top hanger over the ribbon of a wrapped gift, and the recipient gets both a present and a keepsake ornament. Two gifts in one.
How much does one ornament cost to make?
About $2 per ornament once you have basic supplies on hand. A first-time buyer needs $28–$47 for a batch of 12 (wooden rings, cord, ribbon, beads, scissors) — that works out to $2–$4 per ornament even in the first batch.
Can I sell these at craft markets?
Yes — they’re a top seller. A $2 material cost with a $10–$15 sell price gives you excellent margin. Matched sets of 4 or 6 in coordinating colors sell even better as gift bundles.
Where can I buy 2-inch wooden rings?
The 2” wooden rings are available at most craft stores or online — look for “natural wooden macramé rings, 2 inch.” Amazon and Etsy both carry them affordably in packs of 10–20.
Are macramé ornaments safe around kids and pets?
Yes — cotton and metallic macramé cord are both non-toxic. If you’re making these for a household with small children or curious pets, choose ornaments without small beads that could be a choking hazard.
How do I store macramé ornaments between holidays?
Store them flat in a shallow box or drawer, wrapped in tissue paper. Avoid squishing them — the shape holds up better if the ornaments aren’t compressed. Cotton and metallic cord both keep beautifully for years.
Do these work as a Christmas napkin ring?
Yes — a great secondary use. Slip a rolled linen napkin through the wreath ring for elegant boho table styling. Guests can take them home as favors after the meal.
Can I add lights or embellishments after the fact?
Absolutely. Weave a tiny string of battery LED lights through the wreath section, or glue a mini snow-covered branch, small pinecone, or dried flower to the ring for extra flair.
What’s the difference between a macramé wreath ornament and a full-size macramé wreath?
Scale. This ornament is 2–3” and lightweight enough for tree branches. A full-size macramé door wreath is 10–18”, uses much more cord, and typically features a more complex knot pattern like a full corded weave rather than a lark’s head border.
Can I make matching wreath ornaments for gifts?
Yes — matched sets make beautiful gifts. Wrap a set of 4 in tissue paper with a hand-written “made for you” card. A set with a story is worth more than 4 individual store-bought ornaments.
How do I hang the ornament without damaging it?
The built-in top hanging loop slides directly over any tree branch or ornament hook. For heavier decorative use (like on a wall or door), you can add a small S-hook to the top loop for extra security.
Want to master more knots?
Download the free beginner ebook — the complete visual knot library plus 3 mini beginner projects to build your confidence.
Get the free guide →Keep Learning with Bochiknot
5 Christmas Ornaments
Five more macramé ornament tutorials to fill out your holiday tree.
View tutorial
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Final Thoughts
This is the kind of ornament that makes people ask, “where did you get that?” A 30-minute project, $2 in materials, and every year for the rest of your life you can pull them out of the box and remember the afternoon you made a batch. Set up your workspace once, put on a Christmas movie, and knot 6 or 10 in one sitting. Once you’ve got the vertical lark’s head rhythm down, they practically make themselves.
Tag @bochiknot when yours are done — I feature reader ornaments on Instagram every week through the holidays.
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