How to Make a Macrame Coaster in 9 Simple DIY Steps

Transform Cord into Cozy Decor, One Knot at a Time!

There’s something so magical about adding that personal, handmade touch to your home, don’t you think?

Just the other day, I invited a few of my girlfriends over for a cozy afternoon of bubble tea and girl talk. (If you haven’t tried bubble tea before, it’s this delicious, dessert-like drink with chewy tapioca pearls. Pure heaven!)

We were all catching up, laughing over stories, and sipping our drinks when one of my friends suddenly picked up a macrame coaster I’d made.

She started running her fingers over the knots and asked, “Wait, did you make this?” with that excited smile we all get when we find something unexpectedly lovely.

Before I knew it, the coasters had stolen the show! Each of my friends was holding one, admiring the texture and chatting about how they added such a warm, inviting vibe to the table.

That’s when it really hit me—these little macrame coasters were more than just coasters.

They were conversation starters, a little piece of art that made our gathering feel extra special.

And that’s why I knew I had to share this DIY macrame coaster project with you! In just 9 simple steps, you can create these little beauties yourself.

They’re perfect for adding a cozy, handmade touch to your space or even making as a gift for someone who loves that extra bit of charm in their decor.

All it takes is a bit of macrame cord and a little time, and soon you’ll have a set of lovely coasters that’ll make you smile every time you set down your drink.

So, grab your favorite macrame cord, settle in with a cup of tea or bubble tea if you’re feeling adventurous, and let’s get knotting.

Trust me, these coasters will add a sprinkle of handmade joy to every sip!

Macrame Knots You Need to Know

Alright, macrame knotters —let’s talk knots!

If you’re just starting out, getting familiar with a few foundational knots will set you up for all kinds of creative projects.

For our macrame coaster, we’ll focus on three basic knots: the Lark's Head Knot, Double Half-Hitch Knot, and Square Knot.

These three form the backbone of so many macrame designs, and once you’ve got them down, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful pieces!

Lark’s Head Knot

The Lark’s Head Knot is one of the first knots in macrame, perfect for attaching cords to a ring or dowel.

Think of it as your anchor—it’s simple and gives your project a solid foundation.

Double Half-Hitch Knot

The Double Half-Hitch Knot adds structure and clean lines, ideal for outlining shapes and creating rows.

Take your time with this one; it adds a polished look to your design.

Square Knot

A macrame essential, the Square Knot builds texture and structure. Great for coasters, it adds dimension and makes your design really pop.

Once you’ve practiced it, this knot will feel like second nature!

So, give these knots a little practice before we start. Once you’re comfortable with the Lark’s Head, Double Half-Hitch, and Square Knot, you’ll be amazed at how many designs you can create.

Mastering these basics will open up a whole world of macrame possibilities, and I can’t wait to see the beautiful coasters you’ll make!

Interested in More Knots for You Future Macrame Projects?

If you want to add more knots to your macrame designs, check out my free resource, "50 Macrame Knots & Sennit Guide."

It's packed with easy, step-by-step instructions to help you improve your skills and try new creative projects.

Access it here.

Important Macrame Terms for Beginners

Before we begin, it's probably best to go over a few important terms used in macrame.

This will help you understand the techniques more easily, follow patterns with confidence, and set a strong foundation for your macrame journey.

• Knots: Macrame involves various knots, like the overhand knot and alternating overhand knot. Learning these basic knots is key to building a strong foundation. Check the "Macrame Knots You Need to Know" section for the knots used in this pattern.
• Cords: The primary material in macrame is cords made from cotton, jute, nylon, or synthetic fibers. They come in different thicknesses and colors. You can learn more about macrame cord with our "Macrame ESSENTIALS: Everything You Need—Cord, Tools, & Materials" post.
• Loop: A loop is formed by crossing the cord over itself to create a ring-like shape. Loops are essential in many macrame designs.
• Fringe: The loose ends of cords that hang down, adding a decorative element. The fringe can be left as is or trimmed to your desired length. Want to learn more about fringe? here's "My Top 5 Secrets for Creating PERFECTLY Styled Fringe" post you might find helpful.
• Anchor Cord: The fixed cord or structure to which other cords are attached. It provides stability and support for your design. 
• Working Cord: The cord that is actively manipulated to create knots and patterns throughout the project.
• Sennit: A series of knots grouped together to form a pattern or part of your macrame project.
• Frays and Tassels: The loose ends of your cords, often used intentionally as decorative elements like frays or tassels in your design.  

 

How to DIY Macrame Coaster for Beginners | Video Tutorial 

How to DIY Macrame Coaster for Beginners | Step-by-Step Guide

*Note: We recommend following the tutorial video for more detailed instructions and to achieve the best results.

This will provide additional guidance and clarity as you work through each step.

Step 1:

To begin If you have a clothing rack, you can start by hanging a wooden dowel on the rack using S-hooks. 

If you don't have a rack, you can secure your wooden dowel to a flat surface like a tabletop using tape to tape it down so it doesnt move, as shown in step one.

• Take 10 cords, each 110 cm long.
• Attach them to the dowel using Lark's Head knots.
• Tape down the dowel for stability.

 Step 2:

• Leave about an inch of space from the top.
• Using the four middle cords, create a Square Knot.
• Then, add a half knot to form an “S”-shaped Square Knot.

Step 3:

Step 4:

• Fill in the middle section with the S-shaped Square knots.

Step 5:

• Create an additional four rows of S-shaped Square knots below, reducing the number of knots by one with each successive row until you reach a single knot in the middle.

Step 6:

• Take the two most extended cords and leave a 3-inch fringe. Afterward, trim off the excess.
• Utilize one of the cords as an anchor for Double Half Hitch knots at the bottom of the diamond.

Step 7:

• Remove the dowel and cut it into the loops' center.

Step 8:

• Take the second cord cut at the bottom, and create another row of Double Half Hitch knots on the opposite side. 

Step 9:

• Close off with a DHH knot with the anchor cords on both sides. 
• Trim and comb through the fringe. 

 

Finishing Touches

And there you have it! With just a few simple steps, you’ve created a beautiful macrame coaster that’s not only practical but adds a touch of handmade charm to your home. 

If it’s for your morning coffee or an evening tea, this little piece will bring warmth to every moment.

I hope you enjoyed making this macrame coaster as much as I did!

Don’t hesitate to play around with different colors or sizes to make a set that’s uniquely yours.

And if you’re feeling inspired, why not make a few extras to gift to friends or family?

There’s something so special about sharing a handmade creation with loved ones.

Thank you for joining me on this project! Be sure to share your creations—I’d love to see how your coasters turn out.

Keep knotting, keep creating, and remember: a little handmade love goes a long way in making any space feel like home.