How to Make a Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging Tutorial

Finished DIY zigzag macramé wall hanging in modern boho cream and accent cord — Bochiknot

HomeMacramé Wall Hangings › Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging

How to Make a DIY Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging (Modern Boho Tutorial)

A zigzag macramé wall hanging (also called a chevron macramé wall art, modern boho fiber art piece, or geometric macramé wall hanging) is a hand-knotted cotton wall art piece used to add architectural texture and modern-boho warmth to spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, gallery walls, dorm rooms, and rental apartments. It works by mounting 28 cords on a 16-inch dowel with Lark's Head knots, then building diagonal rows of square knots and a finishing Double Half Hitch to form a crisp V-shaped chevron. It is considered beginner-friendly — once you know the three foundational knots, the 7 photo steps below walk you through every detail.
TL;DR: Fold 28 strands of 4mm 3-ply cotton cord at 180 cm and mount them on a 16-inch dowel with Lark's Head knots. Build diagonal zigzag rows with square knots, finish with a crisp Double Half Hitch row, and add a 56-strand accent-color fringe. Beginner-friendly. Takes 2–3 hours. Under $25 in materials. The most beginner-friendly modern boho wall art you can make.
How to Make a Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging in 4 Phases (Quick Answer)
  1. Phase 1 — Mount the cords (Steps 1–2): Fold 28 strands of 4mm cord at 180 cm and mount on a 16-inch dowel with Lark's Head knots. Tighten each knot snug.
  2. Phase 2 — First zigzag row (Step 3): Build diagonal rows of square knots from the outer cords inward — left side meets right side in the middle.
  3. Phase 3 — Second row + Double Half Hitch (Steps 4–5): Add a second matching zigzag row, then finish with a crisp diagonal Double Half Hitch row to lock the chevron shape.
  4. Phase 4 — Fringe finish (Steps 6–7): Attach 56 contrasting 40 cm fringe strands across the bottom, then trim to a V-shape and hang.

Total time: 2–3 hours · Finished size: 16–20" wide x 20–26" long · Skill level: beginner · Cost: under $25 in materials

DIY Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging Tutorial — Modern Boho — Bochiknot Pinterest pin

📌 Save $80+ vs Anthropologie wall art — pin this DIY

Etsy zigzag wall hangings run $45–$120, West Elm runs $89–$169, and Anthropologie marks similar pieces up to $240. Save this DIY to your modern-boho, macramé, or wall-art Pinterest board and make one for under $25.

Save to Pinterest
Watch the zigzag macramé wall hanging tutorial — Bochiknot YouTube

🎥 Prefer to watch?

The full step-by-step video walkthrough shows every diagonal square knot in real time. The trick that makes the zigzag look crisp (stepping diagonally with the two rightmost cords plus the next two cords) is much easier to nail visually than from photos alone.

Jump to video

What You'll Learn

What Is a Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging?

A zigzag macramé wall hanging is a hand-knotted cotton wall art piece built around a horizontal wooden dowel with vertical cords mounted in Lark's Head knots. The body of the piece is formed by diagonal rows of square knots stepping down from each outer edge to meet in the center, creating a sharp V-shape (the "zigzag" or "chevron"). A finishing row of Double Half Hitch knots underneath the square-knot zigzag locks the pattern in place and gives the bottom edge a crisp angled line, while a contrasting-color fringe sits below the knotted zone for a pop of texture.

What makes this piece a modern-boho favorite:

  • Reads as architectural, not "old boho." The geometric V-shape pairs equally well with mid-century modern, Japandi, coastal, and minimalist interiors — not just bohemian rooms.
  • Beginner-friendly. Only three knots are used (Lark's Head, square knot, Double Half Hitch) and the diagonal pattern is forgiving of small tension differences.
  • Two-color contrast. The accent-color fringe gives instant Instagram-worthy color depth without complicating the knotting.
  • Rental-friendly. Hangs from a single Command hook — no nails required, weighs less than 500 g.
  • Scalable. The same zigzag logic works at 12 inches for a dorm wall or 24 inches for a statement piece above a sofa.

Why DIY This Modern Boho Wall Art?

Zigzag and chevron wall hangings retail for $45 to $120 on Etsy, $89 to $169 at West Elm and Urban Outfitters, and $120 to $240 at Anthropologie. A handmade version offers four advantages:

  • Cost. About $15–$25 in 4mm 3-ply cord and a $4–$6 dowel — plus an afternoon of your time.
  • Custom size. Make it dorm-small, bedroom-standard, or above-the-couch large to fit your specific wall.
  • Custom color. Match your room exactly instead of choosing from one of three Etsy color options.
  • Sustainable. 100% cotton biodegradable cord, no synthetic backing, no fast-fashion supply chain.

Project Details

Skill levelBeginner
Finished size16–20" wide x 20–26" long
Time required2–3 hours
Total costUnder $25

Materials & Tools You'll Need

Bochiknot 4mm 3-ply cotton macramé cord — modern boho wall hanging favorite

4mm 3-Ply Cord (2 Colors)

The modern-boho favorite — holds diagonal square knot and Double Half Hitch tension cleanly with a soft matte finish

Shop cord
Bochiknot macramé scissors, measuring tape, and fringe comb — the essential tool set

Scissors + Tape + Comb

The three essential tools — sharp scissors for clean cuts, measuring tape for accurate 180 cm strands, fringe comb for the final fluff

Shop tools
Bochiknot Welcome Kit — beginner macramé starter bundle

Bochiknot Welcome Kit

The beginner bundle — cord, scissors, comb, dowel, and pattern access in one box, perfect for first-time makers

Shop Welcome Kit

Essential Macramé Tools

Cord Quantities & Cost Breakdown

Component Cord Quantity Use
Base cords 4mm 3-ply color #1 28 x 180 cm (71") Mounted with Lark's Head, forms the zigzag
Hanging loop 4mm 3-ply color #1 1 x 75 cm (30") Tied to both ends of the dowel to hang
Fringe strands 4mm 3-ply color #2 (accent) 56 x 40 cm (16") Two per attachment point across the bottom edge

Scaling for your project (small / standard / large)

For Dowel Base cords Fringe strands Estimated cost
Small (dorm / apartment) 12" (30 cm) 20 x 150 cm 40 x 40 cm ~$12–$18
Standard (this tutorial) 16" (40 cm) 28 x 180 cm 56 x 40 cm ~$15–$25
Large (above bed / couch) 24" (60 cm) 40 x 220 cm 80 x 50 cm ~$30–$40

Cost estimate based on 4mm 3-ply Bochiknot cord (regular roll, $24.99). A single roll covers one standard wall hanging with cord to spare.

Sizing Variations

The base pattern uses a 16" dowel. Scale up or down depending on your wall and decor:

Size Dowel Finished dimensions Best for
Mini 8" (20 cm) ~8" w x 14" l Bookshelf accent, gallery-wall filler, gift
Small 12" (30 cm) ~12" w x 16" l Dorm wall, rental apartment, above-desk office
Standard (base pattern) 16" (40 cm) ~16–20" w x 20–26" l Bedroom, living room, hallway, gallery wall anchor
Large 24" (60 cm) ~24" w x 32" l Above a bed or couch, statement focal wall
Statement 36" (90 cm) ~36" w x 48" l Above headboard on king beds, large empty walls
Gallery-wall tip: Make one mini, one standard, and one large in the same color combo and cluster them tightly on a single wall for a curated boho gallery. Three sizes in matching cord beat three identical pieces for visual interest.

Video Walkthrough

💡 Pro tip: Follow the video alongside the photo steps — the diagonal stepping motion (taking the two rightmost cords from the previous knot plus the next two cords) is much easier to grasp visually than from a still photo. Pause and rewind freely.

How to Make a DIY Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging (Step-by-Step)

Follow the 7 steps below. Each step has photos and clear bullet instructions. If you get stuck on any step, the video above walks through every step in real time.

How the pattern works — a quick overview

This pattern builds in four phases: (1) fold and mount 28 cords on the dowel with Lark's Head knots, (2) tighten the Lark's Head knots so the cords sit cleanly against the dowel, (3) build two diagonal rows of square knots stepping inward from each side to form the zigzag, followed by a finishing diagonal Double Half Hitch row that locks the chevron, and (4) attach a 56-strand contrasting-color fringe and trim to a clean V-shape.

Step 1: Set Up the Cords to the Dowel

  • Fold 28 strands of 180 cm 4mm cord in half and attach each to the dowel with a Lark's Head knot.
  • Tightening here matters: because the pattern leaves space above the first knot row, pull each loop snug so the cord sits neatly against the dowel.

Step 1.1 — Folding 4mm cord and attaching to dowel with Lark's Head knot — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 1.2 — All 28 cords mounted on the dowel — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 2: Tighten the Lark's Head Knots

  • After mounting all 28 cords, tidy each knot by pulling the two cords under the loop and pushing the loop up so it sits at the bottom edge of the dowel.
  • Pull the working ends first, then push the loop. Tight knots now save you frustration later.

Step 2 — Tightening Lark's Head knots so they sit cleanly under the dowel — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 3: Build the Zigzag with Square Knots

  • The zigzag is worked with square knots stepped diagonally across the cords.
  • Start at the far left with the first 4 cords and tie a square knot. Use the outer two cords as the working cords and the inner two as anchors.
  • From each finished knot, step diagonally to the right by taking the two rightmost cords from the previous knot plus the next two cords to the right, repeating until you reach the 12th cord.
  • Repeat the same technique on the opposite side so the diagonal lines meet in the middle. Adjust spacing between Lark's Head knots if the cords bunch up — a slight shift left or right evens out tension and keeps the diagonals straight.

Step 3.1 — First diagonal square knot row from the left side — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 3.2 — Continuing the diagonal stepping pattern across the cords — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 3.3 — Both diagonals meeting in the middle forming the V shape — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 4: Add the Second Zigzag Row

  • Continue adding diagonal rows of square knots left-to-right and right-to-left, matching the number of knots on each side so both sides balance.
  • Small adjustments — loosening, re-aligning, and re-tightening single knots — will keep the pattern symmetrical.

Step 4.1 — Beginning the second zigzag row underneath the first — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 4.2 — Continuing the second diagonal row matching the first — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 4.3 — Both zigzag rows complete with balanced knot counts — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 5: Diagonal Double Half Hitch (DHH) Row

  • Below the square knot rows, add a tight diagonal row of Double Half Hitch knots. Keep about 0.5" (1 cm) of space above this row so the zigzag reads clearly.
  • Use the far-left cord as your anchor and work right-to-left, then switch directions from the highest middle point and continue the DHH knots down the other side. Consistent spacing and even tension are key here.

Step 5.1 — Starting the diagonal Double Half Hitch row from the left — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 5.2 — Switching direction at the center point of the DHH row — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 5.3 — Completed diagonal Double Half Hitch row locking the chevron — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 6: Add the Fringe for Contrast

  • For a pop of color, attach two 40 cm accent-color cords at a time using a doubled loop (similar to a Lark's Head but doubled over the working cords).
  • Work across the lower edge in pairs, pushing the loops so they sit neatly on top of each other. This design uses 56 fringe strands (two per loop across 28 attachment points).

Step 6.1 — Attaching first pair of accent fringe cords — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 6.2 — Building the fringe across the bottom edge — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 6.3 — Pairs of fringe cords sitting neatly across the bottom — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 6.4 — Full 56-strand contrasting fringe attached — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 7: Finishing — Trim and Hang

  • Trim the fringe to create a clean diagonal edge, then cut the bottom horizontally across the shortest cords and refine the shape until you are happy. A strong pair of scissors makes all the difference.
  • For a hanging loop, attach a 75 cm cord to both ends of the dowel with a double overhand knot.

Step 7.1 — Trimming the fringe into a clean V shape — Bochiknot zigzag wall hanging

Step 7.2 — Finished zigzag wall hanging with hanging loop attached — Bochiknot

That's a Wrap!

Step back, admire your finished zigzag wall hanging, and hang it from a single Command hook anywhere in your home. This is one of the most beginner-friendly modern boho wall pieces in the Bochiknot library — perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, dorm walls, gallery walls, and housewarming gifts.

Honest Take: What to Know Before Starting

A few honest disclaimers before you commit

  • This is genuinely beginner-friendly — but plan a full afternoon. The three knots are simple, but mounting 28 cords + tying the diagonals + attaching 56 fringe strands takes 2–3 hours your first time. Block real focus time, not a quick 30-minute window.
  • Counting matters more than perfect tension. Asymmetric zigzags come from miscounting square knots on the left vs right, not from poor knotting. Count out loud as you build each diagonal.
  • Your first wall hanging will be slightly imperfect — that is fine. The texture of 4mm cotton hides small tension differences. Don't unravel and restart over a single uneven knot.
  • Cord lengths matter. Cutting cord too short is the #1 cause of "I ran out partway through the diagonal." Always add 10% to the recommended lengths your first time through the pattern.
  • Direct sun fades natural cotton. If hung in a south-facing window, the cream tone will yellow over months. Pick a wall away from harsh direct light to keep colors bright.
  • Spot-clean only. No washing machine. A dry duster or slightly damp cloth, air-dry flat — that is the safest way to keep it looking new.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Mount cords evenly first. If your Lark's Head knots are bunched on one side, the zigzag will look pulled left or right. Space them evenly across the full width of the dowel before you start the first square knot.
  • Count out loud on each diagonal. 7 square knots on the left, 7 on the right. The center is where they meet. Counting prevents the most common mistake (asymmetric zigzags).
  • Pull working cords tight, then adjust the anchor cords. Tension comes from the working cords (the outer two). The anchors stay loose until you tighten the working cords down on top of them.
  • Leave 1 cm of space above the DHH row. The white space makes the diagonal pop visually — without it, the chevron blurs into the square knots above.
  • Comb the fringe before trimming. Always brush out the fringe with a fringe comb before cutting — combed cord trims cleaner and the final shape looks intentional.
  • Trim fringe last and trim with the piece hanging. Gravity changes how the fringe falls. Hang the finished piece on the wall (or a temporary nail), then trim — the V-shape will look cleaner.
  • Two cord colors makes the zigzag pop. The contrast between the natural base color and the accent fringe is what makes this pattern Instagram-worthy. Don't skip the second color.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

Problem Likely cause Fix
Zigzag looks pulled to one side Lark's Head knots mounted unevenly Re-space the Lark's Head knots evenly across the dowel before knotting the zigzag
Left and right diagonals don't meet in the middle Different number of square knots per side Count out loud — match the exact number of square knots on each side
Square knots loose / wobbly Working cords not pulled tight Pull the outer two working cords tight against the inner anchor cords on every knot
Cords bunched above the square knots Lark's Head knots too close together Slide the Lark's Head knots slightly outward to create space, then re-tighten
Diagonal Double Half Hitch looks crooked Inconsistent knot spacing or tension Pull each DHH knot the same distance from the previous one — use a small ruler if needed
Fringe trim looks uneven Trimmed flat without combing or with piece on a table Comb the fringe first, then trim with the piece hanging on the wall — gravity changes the shape
Cord ran out partway through a diagonal Strands cut too short Always add 10% to recommended lengths your first time — re-cut and remount if needed
Wall hanging hangs crooked Hanging loop tied unevenly to the dowel Measure equal lengths from each end of the dowel before tying the overhand knots

Zigzag vs Other Macramé Wall Hangings: Which Shape to Choose

Macramé wall hangings come in five primary silhouettes. Here's how the zigzag stacks up:

Shape Difficulty Best for Knots used
Zigzag / Chevron(this tutorial) Beginner Modern boho, geometric homes, gallery walls Lark's Head, square, Double Half Hitch
Rainbow / Arch Beginner Nursery, playroom, whimsical kid spaces Wrapping, gathering
Leaf Intermediate Botanical, plant lovers, garden rooms Double Half Hitch, brush-out
Plain fringe Beginner Minimalist, modern, scandi homes Lark's Head + cuts
Geometric / Diamond Intermediate Modern, sculptural, gallery walls Square knot variations
Why zigzag is the smartest first project: Zigzag is the easiest pattern that still looks intricate — a perfect first wall hanging that won't look "beginner." The diagonal logic is forgiving, the three knots are foundational across all macramé, and the finished piece reads as modern-boho architectural rather than dated craft.
6 zigzag macrame wall hanging color variations

5 Ways to Customize Your Zigzag Pattern

Once you have the basic zigzag down, the pattern is endlessly remixable. Here are the five most-pinned variations:

Simple Zigzag

One zigzag row above a single Double Half Hitch — the cleanest, most minimalist version (this tutorial).

Why try it: Fastest finish, modern minimalist look.

Double Zigzag

Two parallel zigzag rows offset slightly so the V-shapes interlock visually.

Why try it: Adds depth without doubling your knotting time.

Gradient Zigzag

Cord colors fade from cream at the top to camel or rust at the bottom across the diagonal rows.

Why try it: Instagram-favorite ombré effect.

Color-Blocked Zigzag

Each diagonal line is a different color — cream, sage, mustard, and rust in alternating rows.

Why try it: Bold, modern, gallery-wall statement.

Asymmetric Zigzag

Zigzag only in the top third with a heavy fringe-dominated bottom two-thirds.

Why try it: Soft, romantic, brushed-cotton aesthetic.

Reversed Zigzag

V points up toward the dowel instead of down — an inverted chevron that reads as a mountain silhouette.

Why try it: Mountain / cabin / nature-themed rooms.

What Colors Work Best for a Zigzag Wall Hanging

The zigzag pattern is the perfect canvas for color experimentation. Four palettes dominate Pinterest in 2026:

High-Contrast (Cream + Black)

Cream base cord with a black accent fringe — the modern-boho favorite. Pairs with white walls, matte black hardware, and walnut furniture.

Tonal Minimalist (Cream + Tan + Camel)

Three shades of warm neutral cord — soft, sophisticated, and ideal for Japandi or minimalist boho rooms. Reads as art-gallery rather than craft.

Bold Accent (Cream Zigzag + Rust Fringe)

Natural cream knotted body with a saturated rust or terracotta fringe — the most-pinned Instagram combination of 2026. Pairs with leather, jute, and oak.

Seasonal Palettes

Autumn: terracotta + mustard. Spring: sage + cream. Summer: dusty blue + ivory. Winter: walnut + ivory. Make one for each season and rotate them through the same wall hook.

Where to Hang Your Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging

The zigzag silhouette works in almost any room. Here are the six most popular placements:

Above the Bed

Centered above the headboard, 6–10 inches up. Scale to 24" or larger for queen / king beds.

Above the Couch

Centered above the back of the sofa, about 6 inches up. Pair with linen pillows and a jute rug.

Gallery Wall Anchor

Mix with 4–6 framed prints. The zigzag becomes the textural focal point that anchors the rest.

Bedroom Focal Wall

Standalone on an empty wall opposite the bed. Spotlight with a brass picture light for a curated boutique feel.

Hallway / Entryway

Hang at eye level (about 58 inches from the floor) in narrow halls. Adds texture without taking up floor space.

Office Above Desk

Standalone above a home-office desk or standing desk. Helps Zoom backgrounds look styled and intentional.

Hanging height rule of thumb: Center of the wall hanging at eye level (58–60 inches from the floor) when standalone. When hanging above furniture, leave 6–10 inches of breathing room between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the fringe.

How to Photograph Your Finished Wall Hanging (for Pinterest + Instagram)

5 quick photography rules for Pinterest-worthy shots:
  • Natural window light only — never overhead bulbs. Shoot during morning or late afternoon for soft directional light.
  • Style WITH the surroundings — show the room, not just the wall hanging. Include the headboard, sofa back, or styled shelf.
  • Shoot vertical 4:5 for Instagram, 2:3 for Pinterest — these aspect ratios get prioritized in feeds.
  • Include a "hand at the knots" close-up — close-up texture shots double engagement vs full-wall shots.
  • Tag @bochiknot with #BochiknotMakers on Instagram for a chance to be featured in our weekly story round-up.

Make It Yourself vs Buy Boutique

Source Typical price Notes
Etsy similar zigzag wall hangings $45–$120 Pre-sized, limited color options, no customization
West Elm / Urban Outfitters $89–$169 Mass produced, often synthetic blends not 100% cotton
Anthropologie $120–$240 Designer label, smaller sizes for the price
Bochiknot DIY (this tutorial) ~$15–$25 Custom size, custom color, 100% cotton, free pattern

Why DIY Beats Mass-Produced Wall Art

Sustainability angle: Why DIY beats mass-produced wall art: 100% cotton biodegradable cord, no synthetic backing, no fast-fashion supply chain, no overseas shipping pollution, and the piece lasts decades. A handmade cotton wall hanging is the rare home decor purchase where "buy once, keep forever" actually applies. Compare to acrylic-blend mass-produced pieces that shed microplastics and fade in 18 months.

Zigzag Wall Hanging FAQ

What size dowel and cord should I use for this zigzag macramé wall hanging?

A 16-inch (40–45 cm) wooden dowel works best with 4mm 3-ply cotton cord. The tutorial uses 28 strands at 180 cm for the base cords plus 56 strands at 40 cm for the contrasting fringe. Stick with these proportions for a balanced modern-boho silhouette.

How big should a macramé wall hanging be for above the bed?

For a queen or full bed (about 60 inches wide), aim for a wall hanging 24 to 30 inches wide. For a king (76 inches wide), aim for 30 to 40 inches wide. Hang it 6 to 10 inches above the headboard, or 8 to 12 inches above the mattress if there's no headboard. Scale up this zigzag pattern by using a 24-inch dowel and 40 mounted cords.

What's the difference between zigzag and chevron macramé?

Zigzag and chevron are used interchangeably in macramé. Both describe a V-shaped or angled pattern created by diagonal rows of square knots or Double Half Hitches. Some artists reserve "chevron" for tighter, more uniform angles and "zigzag" for more relaxed organic diagonals — but in tutorials and product listings, the two terms point to the same modern-boho silhouette.

How much cord do I need for a wall hanging?

For this 16-inch zigzag wall hanging you need about 53 m of 4mm 3-ply cord (28 strands x 180 cm of base color + 56 strands x 40 cm of accent color + 1 strand x 75 cm for the hanger). A single Bochiknot regular roll of 3-ply 4mm covers one wall hanging with cord to spare.

What dowel size should I use?

A 16-inch (40 cm) wooden dowel about 0.5 to 0.75 inches in diameter is standard for this beginner zigzag pattern. For smaller dorm or apartment walls, drop to 12 inches and use 20 mounted cords. For statement pieces above a bed or couch, scale up to 24 inches with 40 cords.

Can I sell handmade macramé wall hangings?

Yes — handmade zigzag wall hangings retail for $45 to $120 on Etsy, $89 to $169 at West Elm and Urban Outfitters, and $120 to $240 at Anthropologie. Price your work at 3x material cost minimum to cover your time, photograph the piece against a clean wall for listings, and tag with #macramewallhanging and #modernboho on Instagram and Pinterest.

How do I hang it without damaging the wall?

Use a single Command hook rated for 3 lb or more — the finished wall hanging weighs less than 500 g. For rentals, a small adhesive picture hanger holds it without nail holes. For larger statement pieces, use a small nail or wall hook anchored into a stud or drywall anchor.

Are macramé wall hangings still in style 2026?

Yes — modern boho is one of the strongest 2026 home decor trends across Pinterest, TikTok, and Apartment Therapy. The zigzag and chevron pattern in particular is the most-pinned wall art silhouette of the year because it reads as architectural rather than dated boho, and it pairs equally well with mid-century modern, coastal, and Japandi interiors.

How do I clean a macramé wall hanging?

Dust monthly with a soft dry duster or microfiber cloth. For deeper cleaning, spot-clean with a slightly damp cloth and air-dry flat. Never machine wash — it warps the dowel mount and tangles the fringe. Brush the fringe gently with a fringe comb every few months to restore its straight, fluffed look.

Can I customize the colors?

Yes — the zigzag pattern is the perfect canvas for color experimentation. The most-pinned combinations in 2026 are cream + black (modern boho), cream + tan + camel (tonal minimalist), cream zigzag + rust fringe (Instagram favorite), and seasonal palettes like terracotta + mustard (autumn), sage + cream (spring), and walnut + ivory (winter).

What knots are used in a zigzag macramé wall hanging?

Three foundational knots: the Lark's Head knot (mounts the cords to the dowel), the square knot (builds the zigzag rows diagonally), and the Double Half Hitch knot (creates the crisp diagonal line beneath the zigzag rows). If you can tie those three, you can make this entire wall hanging.

How long does it take to make?

Plan for 2 to 3 hours total: about 30 minutes to cut and mount the 28 base cords, 60 to 90 minutes for the zigzag square knot rows and Double Half Hitch finish, and 30 to 60 minutes for the fringe attachment and trimming. Your second wall hanging usually finishes 30 minutes faster than your first.

How do I stop my zigzag from looking uneven?

Count exactly the same number of square knots on the left and right diagonals — asymmetry comes from miscounting, not from poor knotting. Keep tension consistent by tightening each knot the same amount, and slide your Lark's Head knots slightly left or right at the start if your cords bunch — small adjustments early prevent big problems later.

Can I make this in a smaller size for a dorm or apartment?

Yes. For a small dorm or rental wall, drop to a 12-inch dowel with 20 mounted cords at 150 cm long. The finished piece will be about 12 inches wide by 16 inches long including fringe — perfect above a desk or twin bed. The same zigzag pattern works at any size; just scale cord count and lengths together.

Do I need to know knots before starting?

You will have the easiest time if you already know the Lark's Head, square knot, and Double Half Hitch. The zigzag pattern is forgiving for beginners because tension and spacing matter more than perfect knot symmetry. If this is your first macramé project, practice each knot on scrap cord for 10 minutes before mounting your real cords, or start with the Bochiknot Beginner's Guide.

Can beginners make this design?

Absolutely — this zigzag wall hanging is the most beginner-friendly pillar pattern in the Bochiknot library. The diagonal logic is repetitive and forgiving, the materials are inexpensive, and the finished piece looks far more complex than the three knots used to build it. It is the perfect first macramé project. If you want even more beginner inspiration after this one, browse the 12 free beginner projects.

Keep Learning with Bochiknot

DIY Macramé Shell Dreamcatcher Tutorial — Bochiknot

Macramé Shell Dreamcatcher

Cross-cluster favorite — layered shell-pattern dreamcatcher with brushed-out feathers, intermediate skill

Read tutorial
Macramé for Beginners Complete Guide — Bochiknot

Beginner's Guide

The complete 2026 guide to the 4 foundational macramé knots — start here if this is your first project

Start here
Macramé Square Knot Tutorial — Bochiknot

Square Knot

The foundational knot used to build the zigzag rows in this wall hanging — must-know for all macramé

Learn the knot
Double Half Hitch Knot Tutorial — Bochiknot

Double Half Hitch

The diagonal locking knot used to finish the zigzag row in this wall hanging

Learn the knot
Lark's Head Knot Tutorial — Bochiknot

Lark's Head Knot

The mounting knot used to attach all 28 cords to the dowel in this wall hanging tutorial

Learn the knot
12 Free Macramé Projects for Beginners — Bochiknot

12 Free Beginner Projects

Step-by-step tutorials for wall hangings, plant hangers, bags, and more handmade boho decor

Browse projects
Zigzag macrame wall hanging styled above a couch in a sunlit boho living room
Nicole Woo, founder of Bochiknot Macramé

About Nicole Woo

Nicole Woo is the founder of Bochiknot Macramé and has been teaching macramé for over 5 years. She has helped thousands of DIY makers knot their first wall hangings, dreamcatchers, and modern boho home decor pieces 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.

YouTube · Patreon · Etsy · Amazon


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.