How to Make a Macramé Flower Coaster with Beads (Free Beginner Tutorial + Video)
How to Make a Macramé Flower Coaster with Beads (Free Beginner Tutorial + Video)
Last updated: 2026-07-03
Quick answer
What you’ll make: A 4.5" boho macramé flower coaster with 9 petals and a bead between each petal.
Skill level: Beginner to intermediate — if you can tie a square knot, you’re ready.
Time: 1–2 hours — a perfect afternoon project.
Materials: 3mm cotton cord · 1–2mm thin string · 9 large-hole beads · craft glue · scissors.
Cost: Under $5 in materials per coaster. Boutique handmade coasters at Anthropologie or on Etsy run $12–$28 each.
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🎥 Prefer to watch? The full step-by-step video is below. I recommend watching it once end-to-end first — folding the strip into petals in Step 4 makes much more sense once you’ve seen the motion.
What you’ll learn
Knots You’ll Need
Two knots total — that’s the whole reason this project is such a beautiful first macramé piece. If you already know the square knot, you know 95% of what this coaster requires.
Square Knot
The whole coaster is a long strip of consecutive square knots folded into petals.
Learn knot
Overhand Knot
The simplest knot ever — used to secure the anchor and finish the back.
See knot library
Never Made Macramé?
Watch the complete beginners guide first — 10 minutes to be fully ready.
Start hereMaterials & Tools
The material list is truly minimal — almost everything here is something a macramé maker already has in their supply drawer. If you’re starting from scratch, it’s about $25–$35 to buy the basic kit, and then every coaster after the first costs under $5.
Cord & Materials
- 3mm single-strand cotton cord — about 9 meters total (see cord lengths below). Any soft, single-strand natural cotton cord works. I use the organic petite roll for this project.
- 1–2mm thin string — about 1 meter. Any waxed cord, embroidery floss, or thin cotton string works for weaving through the petals.
- 9 × large-hole beads — wooden or resin beads with at least a 3mm hole. Small brass beads also look beautiful for a more polished aesthetic.
- Craft glue, hot glue, or textile glue — a small amount to secure the cord ends on the back.
Tools
- Sharp fabric scissors — rose gold pair I use daily. Clean cord ends make the back look tidy.
- Weaving needle (or a large-eye sewing needle) — makes threading the thin string through the petals much easier.
- Measuring tape or ruler.
- Optional: tape or a pin to secure the anchor cord to a work surface.
Cord Lengths to Cut Before You Start
| Quantity | Length (metric) | Length (imperial) | Used for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 50 cm | 20" | Center anchor cord (Step 1) |
| 1 | 850 cm | 335" | Main square knot strip — folded in half in Step 2 |
| 1 | 75 cm | 30" | Thin string for weaving the petals together (Step 5) |
Coaster Details
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Skill level | Beginner to intermediate — consecutive square knots + basic folding + a simple woven finish |
| Completed size | Approximately 4.5" diameter |
| Completion time | 1–2 hours — a perfect afternoon project |
| Cord needed | 3mm single-strand cotton cord, ~9 meters total |
| Extras needed | 1–2mm thin string · 9 large-hole beads · craft glue · weaving needle (optional) |
Full Video Tutorial
Watch this once end-to-end before you begin, especially Step 4 (folding the strip into petals) and Step 7 (joining the ends). Both are much easier to follow after you’ve seen the motion once.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Nine steps that cluster into three natural phases: build a long square knot strip, fold it into a flower with beads, and finish the back. If you get stuck, the video walks through every step visually.
Steps 1–3: Set up the anchor and knot the strip
Step 1: Set up the anchor cord
The anchor cord is what everything else builds on. Keep it taut and secure — a wobbly anchor makes the whole strip feel harder to knot than it needs to be.
- Tie an overhand knot at one end of the 50 cm strand, then secure that knotted end vertically with tape or a pin so the cord stays stable while working.
- Use this strand as a single center anchor cord, which keeps the structure simpler compared to setups that use two anchor cords.
- A single anchor cord helps create a thinner, more practical coaster, while adding more anchor cords would result in a thicker, chunkier design.
Step 2: Attach the long cord and begin square knots
Finding the midpoint of the long cord matters more than most beginners realize. If your two working cords come out different lengths, you’ll run out of one before the other.
- Fold the 850 cm cord in half to find the midpoint, then place that folded section behind the vertical center cord so the two long ends fall evenly on the left and right.
- Treat the short vertical cord as the anchor cord, and the left and right lengths as your working cords.
- Use the working cords to tie your first square knot around the center anchor cord, securing the setup and making the strands easier to handle.
Step 3: Tie consecutive square knots all the way down
This is the meditative section — put on music or a podcast. Consistent tension is more important than speed. Each square knot should feel just like the last one.
- Continue tying square knots one after another beneath the first knot, forming a long, continuous strip.
- Keep the pattern simple and repetitive—this helps build consistency and confidence, especially for beginners.
- Maintain even tension as you work so the strip forms neatly and folds cleanly during the shaping step later.
Steps 4–6: Fold the petals and add beads
Step 4: Fold the strip into zigzags to form flower petals
Zigzag folding is the moment this piece stops feeling like a strip and starts feeling like a flower. Don’t worry if your petals aren’t identical — the woven string in Step 5 evens everything out.
- Fold the finished square knot strip back and forth into zigzags, with each section around 2 inches long to form the petals.
- Adjust the fold length to change the look—longer sections create larger petals, while shorter ones create a tighter flower shape.
- Aim for about 8 to 10 loops (the sample used nine), and test a few arrangements before securing to find the best shape.
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 5: Weave string through the petals
The weaving string is what actually holds the flower together. Work slowly here — a rushed weave leads to a wobbly finished shape.
- Thread the 75 cm string through a weaving needle and tie an overhand knot at the ends, then begin weaving through the first folded petal.
- This string secures the zigzagged square knot strip, holding the flower shape in place.
- A regular sewing needle with thread can work as an alternative, though a weaving needle is easier to use with thicker fibers.
Step 6: Add beads between each petal
This is my favorite step. The beads add sparkle without any extra knotting effort. Push each bead up snugly against the previous petal so nothing shifts.
- After weaving through the first petal, add a bead, then continue threading through the next zigzag loop.
- Repeat the pattern all the way around: weave through a petal, add a bead, then move to the next.
- Use large-hole beads (at least 3 mm) so they fit properly over the thicker 3 mm cord and create a balanced decorative look.
Steps 7–9: Join the shape and finish the back
Step 7: Join the end back to the beginning
If the final loop doesn’t line up perfectly with the start, that’s completely normal. Small adjustments here make the difference between a good coaster and a great one.
- If the final loop doesn't align perfectly, return to the starting area and carefully untie a small section of square knots to create space for joining.
- Thread the needle through the starting section from the opposite side, following the path needed to connect the shape neatly.
- Make one more pass through a nearby knotted section to secure the join before finishing.
Step 8: Tie off the string and trim the excess
Almost done. A tight overhand knot at the back keeps everything secure — and if the string peeks through anywhere, a tiny dot of glue solves it.
- Once the flower shape is fully connected, turn the piece over and tie an overhand knot at the back with the string.
- Then trim away the excess string and any extra cord ends.
- At this stage, the coaster should already look complete from the front, but the back still needs a little finishing work to keep everything secure.
Step 9: Glue the cord ends to the back
The glue step is small but non-optional. Cord ends left loose will fray within a month of use. Take the extra minute now.
- Apply a small amount of craft glue, hot glue, or textile glue to the trimmed ends, securing them neatly to the back of the coaster.
- Use just enough adhesive to hold everything in place and prevent the ends from loosening over time.
- Once the glue has fully set, the macramé flower coaster is complete and ready to use.
Where to Use These Coasters
A single coaster is beautiful. A matching set of 6 or 8 becomes a statement. Here’s where they shine.
Boho Coffee Table
The classic use. Cotton absorbs condensation without ruining the wood underneath. Perfect for your morning coffee or a summer iced drink.
Handmade Wedding Favors
Boho and rustic weddings love these. Make a batch in warm cream or blush cotton and tie a raffia bow around each one with a little thank-you tag.
Hostess & Housewarming Gifts
Bundle a set of 4 with a small candle or bottle of wine. Handmade always outclasses store-bought.
Bridal or Baby Shower
Group activity: put out cord, beads, and needles and let guests make their own. Doubles as a gift and an icebreaker.
Wall Decor & Mini Wreaths
Skip the coaster function entirely and hang them on the wall as tiny textured wreaths. A cluster of 3 different colors looks stunning.
Under Candles & Vases
Small enough to sit under a taper candle holder, tea light, or narrow vase. Adds texture wherever a coaster wouldn’t normally go.
Make It Yourself vs Buy Boutique
Handmade coasters from boutique brands are marked up significantly. Here’s what a comparable macramé or boho coaster costs off the shelf.
| Source | Coaster Price | Set of 4 Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropologie | $18–$28 each | $72–$112 |
| West Elm | $14–$22 each | $56–$88 |
| Etsy (handmade) | $12–$18 each | $48–$72 |
| World Market | $8–$12 each | $32–$48 |
| Make it yourself | ~$3–$5 each | ~$12–$20 |
Realistic cost breakdown
Starting from scratch with no supplies on hand, here’s what your first coaster costs vs each additional coaster after.
| Item | Approximate Cost | Reusable? |
|---|---|---|
| 3mm cotton cord (petite roll) | $18–$22 | Yes — makes 10–12 coasters |
| Thin string (1 spool) | $3–$5 | Yes — enough for 30+ coasters |
| Wooden beads (pack of 100) | $4–$7 | Yes — makes 10 coasters |
| Craft or hot glue | $2–$4 | Yes |
| Sharp scissors (one-time) | $8–$15 | Yes |
| Total for coaster #1 | ~$25–$35 | — |
| Total for coaster #2+ (cord + beads only) | ~$3–$5 | — |
Pro Tips for a Cleaner Finish
- Tension matters more than speed. The most common giveaway of a beginner coaster is inconsistent square knots. Pull each one with the same pressure — medium, not hard.
- Fold the strip while it’s taut. Let go and it curls; keep it under a bit of tension while you plan your zigzag folds and the flower shape holds itself.
- Try one petal length first. Fold two petals as a test before committing to 9. If the size feels off, adjust before you weave.
- Use a weaving needle. A regular sewing needle works but you’ll fight the thin string. A blunt weaving needle glides through the petals cleanly.
- Push beads up snug. After adding each bead, push it firmly against the previous petal before weaving on. Loose beads shift while you work and throw off the shape.
- Glue the back cleanly. Apply glue only where the cord ends actually meet — not everywhere. A thin dab is stronger than a smear.
Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Square knot strip is twisty or curls on itself | You alternated the direction of your square knots (they became spiral knots). Restart the strip making sure every square knot starts on the same side. |
| Petals come out different sizes | Fold at consistent intervals (about 2" each) using your ruler as a guide. Uneven petals warp the finished flower shape. |
| Coaster looks lopsided when laid flat | The weaving string tension in Step 5 wasn’t consistent. Undo the weave and re-thread with steady, medium tension. |
| Ends won’t meet neatly in Step 7 | Untie one or two square knots on either the starting or ending side to shorten the strip slightly. Small adjustments = clean join. |
| Cord ends fray after a few weeks of use | Add more glue to the back. Wax or clear nail polish on the tip of each cord end before gluing also prevents future fray. |
What to know before you start
Step 4 is where most beginners pause and second-guess themselves. Folding a long, floppy strip of square knots into an even zigzag feels unnatural at first — you’ll want to keep pulling it back into a straight line. Trust the process. The folds set the flower shape, and once the weaving string goes through in Step 5, everything locks into place. If the first coaster feels awkward, the second one will feel completely different. It’s the kind of project where doing it once teaches you everything.
Ready for the next project?
If this coaster clicked and you want more small-format macramé projects — keychains, wall hangings, plant hangers, gift ideas — 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 this coaster?
Tag @bochiknot and use #BochiknotProjects on Instagram — I feature reader projects every week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this coaster tutorial suitable for absolute beginners?
Yes. The whole coaster relies on consecutive square knots, one overhand knot, and a simple weave with thin string. Both are among the easiest macramé techniques to learn. If you’ve made any small macramé piece before, you’ll finish this in one sitting.
What size cord should I use?
3mm single-strand cotton cord for the main strip. A soft cotton cord holds its shape well and folds cleanly into the petals. You’ll also need a 1–2mm thin string (like waxed cord, embroidery floss, or thin cotton) for weaving through the petals.
How long should the cords be?
One 50 cm cord for the center anchor, one 850 cm cord for the main square knot strip, and one 75 cm thin string for weaving the flower shape together. Cut them all before you start so you don’t break your flow.
How many petals should the coaster have?
Nine petals is the sweet spot for a 4.5" coaster. Each petal (zigzag section) should be about 2 inches long. Fewer, larger petals make a bigger coaster with a chunkier look; more, smaller petals give a delicate mandala feel.
Do I really need a weaving needle?
A weaving needle makes threading dramatically easier, but no — you can use a large-eye sewing needle or even just fold and stiffen the end of the thin string with a little wax. Weaving needles are typically $2–$4 at any craft store.
What kind of beads work best?
Large-hole wooden beads with at least a 3mm hole are the classic look. Small brass beads give a more polished feel. Any bead with a 3mm+ hole and a similar diameter to your petal openings will work.
How big is the finished coaster?
Approximately 4.5 inches in diameter — the perfect size for a standard mug or glass. You can scale it up by adding more petals or thicker cord.
Can I customize the embellishments?
Absolutely. Beads are one of many options — try small sequins, tiny wooden charms, embroidery accents, or even skip embellishments entirely for a minimal look. Some makers add a second layer of thin string in a contrast color for a two-tone effect.
How long does the whole project take?
1–2 hours for your first coaster. Once you’ve made two or three, expect them to take under an hour each — the pattern is very repeatable.
How much does one coaster cost to make?
About $3–$5 per coaster once you have basic supplies on hand. A first-time buyer needs $25–$35 to set up the cord, string, beads, glue, and scissors — then every coaster after that is only $3–$5.
Can I sell coasters made from this pattern?
Yes — sell the finished coasters freely at markets, on Etsy, or anywhere else. The pattern itself is copyrighted so please don’t redistribute the written tutorial as your own.
Where can I buy the exact cord and beads I need?
The 3mm single-strand cotton cord is available in the Bochiknot shop. Large-hole beads are easy to find at any local craft store or on Amazon.
Do these coasters actually protect surfaces from wet drinks?
Yes. Cotton cord absorbs condensation well and dries quickly. For heavy use with hot drinks or wet glasses, place them on a hardwood or laminate surface (not raw or unfinished wood, which can stain more easily).
How do I clean a macramé coaster?
Spot-clean with a damp cloth and a tiny bit of mild soap. For deeper cleaning, gently hand-wash in cool water and lay flat to dry. Avoid the washing machine — the flower shape can distort.
Can I make these in different colors?
Yes. The pattern works with any single color of 3mm cord. Cream, blush, rust, sage, and mustard all look gorgeous. Rainbow cord makes a fun playful piece for a kids’ room.
What’s the difference between a macramé coaster and a macramé mandala?
They’re related but different scales. A coaster is small (3–5"), functional for drinks, and simple in pattern. A mandala is larger (8–24"), decorative-only, and typically features a more complex radial knot pattern.
Can I make a matching set for gifts?
Absolutely — sets of 4 or 6 make beautiful hostess, wedding, or housewarming gifts. Wrap them together with a raffia bow, and add a little thank-you card with the maker’s note. Very affordable, very heartfelt.
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
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Final Thoughts
Macramé coasters are one of my favorite gateway projects. They’re small enough that you can finish one in an afternoon, forgiving enough that a first-timer can produce something genuinely beautiful, and useful enough that you’ll actually put them out on your coffee table. Everything you learn making this coaster — consistent tension, working with beads, folding and joining shapes — carries directly into every future project.
If you make one, please tag @bochiknot. I feature reader coasters on Instagram every week, and yours might be next.
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