The Boho Macramé Drawstring Bag That Turns Heads | DIY Tutorial (21 Steps + Video)
A Note from Nicole
Making a macramé bag is one of my favorite ways to take macramé off the wall and into your everyday life. Wall hangings are beautiful, but a bag you actually carry — that's craft you get to enjoy every single day.
This drawstring backpack looks impressive, but I promise it's more approachable than it appears. The whole 21-step project uses just three knots you probably already know: the Lark's Head, the Square knot, and the Double Half Hitch. The magic isn't in learning new knots — it's in combining them into panels that come together as a functional, boho-chic bag.
Give yourself a full afternoon or two evenings. Pause the video whenever you need to check symmetry. And when you finish, you'll want to carry it everywhere — to the farmers' market, to the beach, on quick errands. It becomes part of your daily rhythm.
A macramé drawstring backpack (also called a boho macramé bag, cotton cord backpack, or DIY handmade backpack) is a hand-knotted cotton-cord backpack featuring a drawstring closure at the top and shoulder straps for wearing. This 21-step tutorial builds the bag using 5mm single-strand cotton cord with a decorative combination of Berry knots, Alternating Square knots, and Double Half Hitch knots. Perfect for beginner-to-intermediate makers ready for their first bag project — takes about 4–6 hours total and results in a lightweight, boho-chic accessory for daily wear.
Quick Answer
- What you'll make: A boho-chic macramé drawstring backpack featuring Berry knot decorative bands, Alternating Square knot panels, and a Double Half Hitch finished bottom.
- Skill level: Beginner–Intermediate. Uses just 3 foundational knots (Lark's Head, Square knot, Double Half Hitch) that transfer to countless other macramé projects.
- Time: 4–6 hours total. Perfect weekend project or spread across 2 evenings.
- Cord: 5mm single-strand cotton cord — specific lengths for drawstring, front panel, and back panel cords.
- Perfect for: Everyday carry, farmers' market runs, beach bag, gift-giving, and adding a handmade piece to your everyday style.
🎥 Watch the video first. Nicole demonstrates every step on camera — including cord placement, knot rhythm, and the tricky bag-flipping moves that are much easier to see than to read.
What's in this tutorial
- What is a Macramé Drawstring Backpack?
- Materials You'll Need
- Knots You'll Use (with tutorial links)
- Cord Lengths Reference
- Project Details at a Glance
- Watch the Video Tutorial
- Steps 1-3: Build the Base Cord Setup
- Steps 4-8: First Decorative Row
- Step 12: Join Front & Back Panels
- Steps 18-19: Close the Bottom
- Step 21: Finish and Complete
- Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
- Try These Next
- FAQ (16+ Questions)
What is a Macramé Drawstring Backpack?

A macramé drawstring backpack is a hand-knotted cotton-cord bag with a drawstring closure at the top and shoulder straps for wearing. Unlike traditional macramé projects that stay decorative (wall hangings, plant hangers), a bag is functional — you'll actually use it every day.
The drawstring design gives the bag flexibility: cinch it tight to secure your items, or leave it loose for an easier-in-easier-out grab bag. The boho aesthetic comes from the pattern combination — Berry knots create textured decorative bands, Alternating Square knots build the panels, and a Double Half Hitch row finishes the bottom cleanly.
Materials You'll Need
- 5mm single-strand cotton cord — shop 5mm cord
- Sharp scissors — shop scissors
- Measuring tape (or fabric ruler)
- Fringe comb (optional, for cleaning up cord ends) — shop comb
- Inner fabric bag or liner (optional, to protect small items from slipping through the pattern)
Not sure which cord to pick? Read our complete guide to selecting macramé cord and materials. All supplies are also on the Bochiknot Amazon storefront if you prefer Prime shipping.
Knots You'll Use (With Tutorial Links)
Just three foundational knots build this entire backpack. If you're new to any, the tutorials below cover each:
- Lark's Head Knot — attaches cords to the base cords at the start. Learn this knot →
- Square Knot — the workhorse knot for both decorative Berry knots and structural bag panels. Learn this knot →
- Double Half Hitch (DHH) — used for the bottom row and closing details. Learn this knot →
- Berry Knot — 3 tight Square knots stacked to form a raised "berry" shape (covered in the Square Knot tutorial).
- Alternating Square Knot — a pattern variation where Square knots offset by 2 cords each row.
Cord Lengths Reference
The bag uses 5mm cord in three different lengths for different sections:
| Cord type | Length | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drawstring cords | 290cm each | 2 cords | Fold in half for the top drawstring channel |
| Front panel cords | 300cm each | 12 cords | Build the decorative front of the bag |
| Back panel cords | 200cm each | 14 cords + 2 side cords | Structural back panel plus side reinforcement |
| Bottom anchor cord | 100cm | 1 cord | Anchor for the Double Half Hitch bottom row (Step 19) |
Project Details at a Glance
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Skill level | Beginner–Intermediate ★★★☆☆ |
| Time to complete | 4–6 hours (spread across 2 evenings works well) |
| Finished size | ~12" wide × 14" tall |
| Strap length | 45cm (adjustable) |
| Total cords needed | 31 cords in 4 different lengths |
| Knots used | Lark's Head, Square knot, Double Half Hitch, Berry knot, Alternating Square knot |
Watch the Video Tutorial
Watch the full walkthrough first — the flipping moves and cord routing are much easier to see than to read:
▶ Watch this tutorial full-screen on YouTube →
Step-by-Step Photo Tutorial
Every step has photos so you can match your work to the reference. Take your time — bag projects reward patience.
Prepare the Drawstring Cords
- Take two cords that are 290cm long, fold them in half, and place them with the loops facing each other.
- These two folded cords will form the drawstring portion of your finished bag — the part you'll pull to open and close it later.

Attach the First Row of Cords
- Attach twelve 300cm cords to the two base cords using Lark's Head knots.
- Slide each Lark's Head knot snugly against the next so they sit evenly across the base — this creates the clean top edge of the bag's front panel.
Flip and Attach the Second Row
- Flip the pattern upside down and attach fourteen 200cm cords to the remaining two base cords with Lark's Head knots.
- These cords form the back panel of your bag — 14 cords give you slightly more density than the front for structural strength.
Attach the Side Cords
- Turn the pattern upside down again and attach two more 200cm cords, one on each side, using Lark's Head knots.
- The side with the longer (300cm) cords will form the front of the backpack — this is where the decorative pattern sits.
Create Your First Berry Knot
- Skip the first two cords on the left, and with the next four cords, create a Berry knot by tying three Square knots.
- The Berry knot is a raised, textured knot — three tightly-tied Square knots that bunch up to form a small round bead-like shape.
Add the First Row of Alternating Square Knots
- Leave a 3cm gap beneath the Berry knots and make a row of five Alternating Square knots.
- Alternating Square knots shift the pairing pattern — instead of using the same 4 cords, you offset by 2 cords to create a diagonal weave.

Flip and Add Six Square Knots
- Turn the pattern upside down and skip the two far-left cords.
- Use the next four cords to tie a Square knot. Continue to the right, making a row of six Square knots total across the back panel.
Add Another Row of Alternating Square Knots
- Leave 3cm of space and create another row of Alternating Square knots.
- This second row builds up the diamond-style pattern on the back panel.

Great work — panels built!
You've finished Steps 1-8. Both the front and back panels are done with the first decorative row of Berry knots and Alternating Square knots.
Good stopping point. Take a break, stretch your hands, come back for Session 2 when you have another 60–90 minutes.
Create Side Square Knots (Front)
- Use the far-left four cords to create a Square knot in line with the previous row.
- Do the same on the far right — this frames the edges of the pattern with structure.
Create Side Square Knots (Back)
- Flip the pattern upside down and make a Square knot on both the right and left sides, keeping them in line with the previous row.
- Same technique as Step 9, now applied to the opposite side. The bag is starting to take shape.

Alternating Square Knot Rows on Both Sides
- Leave a 1cm space and create another row of Alternating Square knots.
- Flip the bag upside down and repeat this step on the opposite side — you're building symmetry between front and back panels.
Join the Front and Back Panels
- Place the sides together, one on top of the other, with the back of the bag facing you.
- Use the two far-left cords from both the front and back to make a Square knot, then repeat on the right. This connects the front and back panels along the sides.
Add the Berry Knot Row
- Flip the bag so the front faces you.
- Leave 3cm of space and create a new row of five Berry knots. On the far left and right, add Alternating Square knots to align with the Berry knots — this creates the signature decorative band across the front.
Alternating Square Knots on the Back
- Turn the pattern upside down, skip 3cm, and make a row of Alternating Square knots.
- This mirrors the front's decorative row with a cleaner structural row on the back.

Continue Both Sides with Alternating Square Knots
- Flip the bag again and make a row of Alternating Square knots along both the front and back.
- Both panels now have matching Alternating Square knot rows — the bag is symmetrical.

The bag is taking shape!
Steps 9-15 done. Front and back panels are joined, decorative bands are in place, and both sides mirror each other. The bag is officially a bag.
Another good stopping point. When you come back, you'll finish the decorative bands and close the bottom — about 1–1.5 hours of work remaining.
Six Berry Knots Row + Square Knots on Back
- Skip 3.5cm and make a row of six Berry knots.
- Follow this with another row of Alternating Square knots on the back. You're building the second decorative band down the length of the bag.
Third Berry Knot Row (5 Berries)
- Skip 3.5cm again and add a row of Alternating Square knots all around the bag.
- Add five Berry knots to the front and another row of Alternating Square knots on the back — this is the third and final decorative band.
Close the Bottom of the Bag
- Turn the bag inside out and align the last row of Square knots between the front and back, pairing them up.
- Separate the far-left and far-right bottom Square knots, and place the middle four cords from each side into the center. Tie these cords together using a Double Overhand knot — this closes the bottom seam of the bag.
Finish the Bottom with Double Half Hitch
- Using a 100cm cord as an anchor, make a row of Double Half Hitch (DHH) knots along the bottom of the bag.
- Cut off any excess cord. The DHH row creates a clean, finished bottom edge.
Weave the Drawstring and Add Barrel Knot
- Flip the bag right side out.
- Weave the drawstrings through a loop at the bottom.
- Measure 45cm of the strap from bottom to top, then secure the bottom using a Barrel knot — this creates the shoulder strap length that lets you wear the bag comfortably.
Trim and Complete
- Trim any remaining excess cord.
- Your boho macramé drawstring backpack is complete — ready for day trips, farmers' markets, and everyday carry.

You did it!
Your handmade boho macramé drawstring backpack is finished. Wear it, gift it, style it — you've made something that will last for years.
Snap a photo and tag #BochiknotBag on Instagram — Nicole loves seeing finished projects, especially first bags.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Front and back panels don't match up when joining | This usually means one side had slightly different cord tension throughout. Check your knot count row-by-row before joining — if they don't match, add or remove a knot before Step 12. |
| Berry knots aren't bunching into a "berry" shape | The three Square knots inside the Berry need to be pulled very tight. Tighter Square knots = more prominent berry. Also check that all three knots use the same 4 cords (not alternating). |
| Bag shape is uneven — one side wider than the other | Cord tension needs to be consistent left-to-right. If one side is looser, the pattern shifts. Redo the affected row with matched tension. |
| Drawstring won't pull through smoothly | The drawstring channel at the top needs to be loose enough for the cord to slide. If it's too tight, gently loosen the top row of Lark's Head knots by pulling on the drawstring cords. |
| Bottom seam has gaps you can see through | The Double Overhand knot in Step 18 needs to be pulled very tight. If gaps remain, add a second row of Double Half Hitch knots along the bottom for extra closure. |
Try These Next
Nailed the backpack? Here's what to try next:
🎨 Explore more macramé projects: Ready for your next project? Browse our full pattern library for downloadable PDFs, or head to the macramé bags & purses blog for more bag tutorials.
Want a finished bag instead? Handmade Bochiknot bags are also on our Etsy shop.
What Makers Say
"This was my first macramé bag and I was nervous about the flipping steps, but Nicole's video made it so clear. I finished in one weekend and I've been using it as my everyday farmers market bag ever since."
— Priya M.
First bag project, everyday carry
"I made three in a row as gifts — one for my sister, one for my mom, one for me. The Berry knot pattern is so satisfying once you get the rhythm. Beginner-friendly for sure."
— Alicia K.
Made 3 as gifts, 2025
"I lined the inside with a scrap of fabric so my keys don't slip through, and it's honestly one of my favorite bags I own. Nicole's tutorials are so beginner-friendly."
— Rebecca S.
Added fabric liner, uses daily
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make a macramé drawstring backpack?
About 4–6 hours total for a first-time beginner. Most makers spread it across 2 evenings or a full afternoon. Once you've made one, subsequent bags take 3–4 hours.
What cord should I use for a macramé bag?
5mm single-strand cotton cord is the sweet spot for bags — sturdy enough to hold shape when loaded, but not so heavy that the bag becomes uncomfortable to carry. 4mm works too but produces a slightly floppier bag.
How much cord do I need?
You'll need about 12 meters of 5mm cord total: 2× 290cm (drawstrings) + 12× 300cm (front) + 14× 200cm + 2× 200cm (back + sides) + 100cm (bottom anchor).
Can beginners really make this backpack?
Yes — the whole project uses just three foundational knots (Lark's Head, Square knot, Double Half Hitch). The challenging part is the length of the project, not the difficulty of any individual step. If you've made one macramé wall hanging, you're ready for this.
Do I need to line the bag with fabric?
It's optional. Some makers add a fabric liner (a plain drawstring bag or a rectangle of cotton fabric) to prevent small items like keys or coins from slipping through the pattern. Nicole's tip: line it if you'll carry small essentials, skip the liner if you're using it for larger items like books or produce.
What's a Berry knot?
A Berry knot is a decorative macramé knot made by tying three Square knots very tightly, then folding the cord tail back through the top of the stack. The three tight knots bunch into a raised, round shape that looks like a small berry — perfect for adding texture to a bag or bracelet.
How do I make the strap longer or shorter?
The 45cm shoulder strap length in Step 20 is customizable. For a longer strap (crossbody wear), extend it to 55–60cm. For a shorter strap, use 35–40cm. Measure against your body to check hanging position before securing the Barrel knot.
Can I add color to the pattern?
Yes — mix cord colors for a striped or ombré look. Nicole recommends replacing the front panel's 12 cords with 6 cords of one color and 6 of another for a two-tone bag. Or use a single accent color for just the Berry knot rows for a subtle detail.
Can I wash a macramé bag?
Spot-clean with a slightly damp cloth and mild soap. For a full wash, hand-wash in cool water with gentle detergent and lay flat to dry. Avoid the washing machine — it can distort the knot pattern.
Where can I buy the exact materials Nicole uses?
All materials are on bochiknot.com — the 5mm cord, scissors, and fringe comb are all in stock. You can also find them on the Bochiknot Amazon storefront for Prime shipping. Prefer a ready-made bag instead of DIY? Nicole's handmade pieces are also on our Bochiknot Etsy shop.
Is a macramé bag durable enough for daily use?
Yes — 5mm cotton cord holds up beautifully for daily wear. Members report their bags lasting 3–5 years of everyday use. The knots stay tight, and cotton develops a soft patina over time that only makes it more beautiful.
What if I make a mistake mid-project?
Untie back to the last correct row and redo. Cotton cord forgives untying — nothing gets permanently damaged. Nicole scraps rows all the time; it's part of the practice.
Can I use recycled or organic cotton cord?
Absolutely. Organic cotton cord has slightly more texture than standard cotton, which adds character to the bag. It's Nicole's personal preference for bags because the softer feel is comfortable against the body.
How big is the finished bag?
Approximately 12 inches wide and 14 inches tall — enough for a wallet, phone, keys, a book, and a small water bottle. Perfect everyday size.
Can I make a smaller version for a kids' bag or a purse?
Yes — scale down the cord lengths proportionally. For a purse-sized version, use 4mm cord and cut all lengths in half. The pattern works at any scale.
What's the best occasion to gift this bag?
Handmade macramé bags make excellent gifts for graduation, birthdays, Mother's Day, or as thoughtful hostess gifts. The time and craft show in the finished piece.
Can I sell macramé bags I make from this pattern?
Yes — handmade macramé bags sell for $65–$120 on Etsy. Personalized versions (custom colors, initial charms) fetch higher. Please don't share or resell the pattern itself — you're welcome to sell finished handmade bags you make from it.
Keep Learning with Bochiknot
6 Keychain Patterns
6 beginner keychain patterns — great smaller projects to build skills.
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Christmas Ornaments
5 beginner-friendly Christmas ornament patterns using the same foundational knots.
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📸 Made a bag? Share it.
Tag #BochiknotBag on Instagram — Nicole loves seeing what makers create, especially first bag projects.


































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