Macramé Plant Hanger with Beads: Free 13-Step DIY Tutorial (+Video)
How to Make a Macramé Plant Hanger with Beads (Free 13-Step Beginner Tutorial + Video)
Last updated: 2026-07-03
Quick answer
What you’ll make: A 7" wide × 37" tall beaded macramé plant hanger with a daisy knot centerpiece, wooden bead accents, and a delicate fringe finish.
Skill level: Beginner — if you can tie a square knot, you can do this.
Time: 2–3 hours (perfect for a relaxed weekend afternoon).
Materials: 4mm single-strand cotton cord · 2" wooden ring · 4 large-hole beads · sharp scissors.
Cost: Under $10 total. Handmade beaded plant hangers on Etsy or Anthropologie run $35–$85.
📌 PIN THIS FOR LATER
🎥 Prefer to watch? The full step-by-step video is below. I recommend watching it once end-to-end first — the daisy knot section in Step 8 is much easier to follow once you’ve seen the motion.
What you’ll learn
Knots You’ll Need
Six knots total — none of them advanced. If you’ve made even one small macramé project, you probably already know four or five of these. Take a minute to skim the linked tutorials so you’re not learning a knot mid-project.
Crown, Half Hitch & Gathering
Covered in the beginners guide — watch these once before you start.
Learn all knotsMaterials & Tools
Keep it simple. Everything below is what I actually use in my studio, and every part is easy to swap based on what’s at your local craft store.
Cord & Materials
- 4mm single-strand recycled cotton cord — about 27 meters total (see cord lengths below). I use the natural cotton petite roll for this project; a soft, spinnable single-strand cord makes the daisy pattern much easier to shape.
- 1 × 2" wooden ring — wooden ring gives a warmer look than metal. Any 2–3" ring works.
- 4 × large-hole beads — wooden beads with at least a 5mm hole so the doubled cord can pass through easily. Round or barrel-shaped both look beautiful.
- 1 × plant pot — 4–6" pot fits perfectly.
Tools
- Sharp fabric scissors — rose gold pair I use daily. A clean fringe cut makes the whole piece look intentional.
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Optional: an S-hook or wall hook so you can hang the ring while working. Working vertically from Step 2 onward gives you a much better feel for tension and drape.
Cord Lengths to Cut Before You Start
| Quantity | Length (metric) | Length (imperial) | Used for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 350 cm | 138" | Main structural cords (folded through the ring in Step 1) |
| 8 | 150 cm | 59" | Anchor cords added in Step 3 for the daisy pattern |
| 1 | 60 cm | 24" | Gathering knot at the bottom (Step 12) |
Plant Hanger Details
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Skill level | Beginner — forgiving pattern that hides small tension inconsistencies |
| Completed size | 7" wide (with pot) × 37" tall from ring to fringe tip |
| Completion time | 2–3 hours — split across an afternoon and evening if you like |
| Cord needed | 4mm single-strand cotton cord, ~27m total |
| Extras needed | 1 × 2" wooden ring · 4 × large-hole beads · 1 × plant pot |
Full Video Tutorial
Watch this once end-to-end before you begin, especially the daisy knot centerpiece in Steps 7–9. Seeing the motion once makes the written instructions click much faster.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Thirteen steps sound like a lot on paper, but they cluster into four natural phases: attach the cords, add the beads, build the daisy pattern, and finish the base. Take breaks between phases if your hands need it.
Steps 1–3: Attach cords and build the top
Step 1: Attach the main cords to the ring
This first step sets the whole hanger up. Take your time folding each cord in half so the two halves come out even — if they’re uneven now, it’ll show all the way down.
- Take 4 cords, each 350 cm long, and fold them in half.
- Weave them through the ring so that you have 8 working cords.
Step 2: Tie 24 crown knots in two groups
The crown knots create the sturdy, textured top of the hanger. Count out loud as you go to 24 — I promise you’ll lose track otherwise. Keep tension steady but not tight.
- Separate the cords into 2 groups of 4 cords each.
- Using each group, tie 24 consecutive Crown knots.
Step 3: Add the anchor cords with reverse lark's head knots
The anchor cords are what let you add the daisy pattern later. Space them evenly around the top — if one side ends up with more anchors than the other, the daisies will look off-balance.
- In each group of 4 cords, overlap the cords a few inches down.
- Attach 2 cords (150 cm each) to the group using Reverse Lark's Head knots.
Steps 4–6: Spacing and adding the beads
Step 4: Measure and mark your spacing
Spacing is the difference between a rushed-looking hanger and a polished one. 22 cm (about 8.5") is my go-to, but if you want a taller drape, add another 2–3 cm.
- Straighten out the cords and measure the spacing to your desired length.
- Recommended spacing is about 22 cm (8.5 inches).
- Adjust the knots accordingly.
Step 5: Tie three vertical lark's head knots on each side
Three vertical lark’s heads on each side gives the beads a stable seat to sit in. Pull each one snug but not tight — you want them to hold, not squish.
- On both the right and left sides, make 3 consecutive Vertical Lark's Head knots.
Step 6: Thread a bead through each middle pair
The beads are the star. Push each one up firmly against the vertical lark’s heads so they don’t slide during the daisy section.
- Thread a bead through the middle 2 cords in each group.
Steps 7–9: The daisy knot centerpiece
New to macramé? Grab the free beginner guide.
The complete knot library (lark’s head, square, crown, gathering, half hitch) with photos + video links. Written for people making their very first project.
Download the free guide →Step 7: Bring the middle cords up and tie a half hitch
This is where the daisy begins to take shape. If the middle cords feel awkward to bring back up, that’s normal — just take it slow.
- Overlap the anchor cords.
- Bring the middle 2 cords up through the top middle hole and tie a Half Hitch knot with the left and right cords.
Step 8: Anchor the daisy centerpiece with a large square knot
The large square knot is the daisy’s centerpiece. Tie it firmly — this knot anchors the whole pattern above it.
- Use the anchor cords to tie a large Square knot.
Step 9: Repeat the daisy pattern all the way around
Now you’re repeating what you already know. Put on a podcast or music and enjoy the rhythm.
- Repeat the Daisy pattern all the way around the plant hanger.
Steps 10–13: Finish the hanger
Step 10: Tie a square knot in each group a few inches down
This spacing knot creates the visual room between the daisy section and the fringe. Keep the square knots at roughly the same height around the hanger.
- A few inches down, tie a Square knot with each set of cords.
- Repeat this all around.
Step 11: Add a row of alternating square knots
Alternating square knots create the basket shape that cradles your plant pot. Consistent tension is the whole game here.
- A few inches further down, tie a row of Alternating Square knots with all the cords.
Step 12: Finish with a gathering knot at the bottom
The gathering knot ties everything together (literally). Wrap it tightly — it’s bearing the weight of the pot.
- Take a 60 cm cord and use it to tie a Gathering knot around all the cords at the bottom.
Step 13: Trim the fringe to your desired length
Trim slowly and cut a little at a time. You can always take more off, but you can’t add cord back.
- Trim any excess cords and fringe to your desired length.
Make It Yourself vs Buy Boutique
Boutique retailers charge a premium for the exact style you’re making here. Here’s what a comparable beaded plant hanger costs off the shelf vs what it costs to make yourself.
| Source | Beaded Plant Hanger Price | Savings vs DIY |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropologie | $68–$85 | Save $58–$75 |
| West Elm | $45–$65 | Save $35–$55 |
| Pottery Barn | $50–$75 | Save $40–$65 |
| Etsy (handmade) | $35–$55 | Save $25–$45 |
| Make it yourself | ~$10–$25 | — |
Realistic cost breakdown (first-time buyer)
Here’s what you can expect if you’re starting from scratch and buying every material fresh. If you already have cord or scissors on hand, your cost drops accordingly.
| Item | Approximate Cost | Reusable? |
|---|---|---|
| 4mm recycled cotton cord (petite roll) | $18–$22 | Yes — a petite roll makes 3–4 hangers |
| 2" wooden ring | $1–$3 | One per hanger |
| 4 large-hole wooden beads | $3–$5 | One set per hanger |
| Plant pot (4–6") | $5–$10 | Yes |
| Sharp scissors (one-time buy) | $8–$15 | Yes — for every future project |
| Total for hanger #1 | ~$25–$35 | — |
| Total for hanger #2+ (cord + ring + beads only) | ~$8–$12 | — |
Best Plants for This Hanger
The daisy knot pattern shapes a shallow basket that suits certain plants better than others. Pick a plant based on the pot depth, trailing vs upright habit, and weight.
Pothos (Golden or Marble Queen)
The classic. Trails beautifully out of the basket, tolerates low light, forgiving of missed waterings. Perfect first plant for a new hanger.
String of Pearls
Long trailing succulent with pearl-like beads that echo the bead accents in your hanger. Loves bright indirect light.
Spider Plant
Bright green with soft cascading fronds. Practically indestructible, sends out little baby plants over time.
Philodendron Heartleaf
Trailing heart-shaped leaves in glossy green. Adapts to low light. Grows fast — you’ll see progress in weeks.
String of Hearts
Delicate silvery-purple heart leaves on thin cascading vines. Elegant boho aesthetic. Prefers bright indirect light.
Boston Fern
Lush and full for a statement look. Needs humidity (bathroom hangers love this). Heavier when watered — use a sturdy wall hook.
Pro Tips for a Cleaner Finish
- Hang it while you work starting from Step 3 onward. Working vertically shows you what the finished hanger will actually look like when it’s holding weight.
- Count out loud during the 24 crown knots in Step 2. Sounds silly, works every time.
- Keep tension consistent — the daisy pattern shows tension inconsistencies more than a wall hanging does. Aim for a steady, medium pull.
- Push beads up firmly against the vertical lark’s heads before starting the daisy. Loose beads mid-pattern are frustrating.
- Comb the fringe before you trim. A fringe comb (or a wide-tooth hair comb) shows you the real line before you cut.
Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Daisies look uneven around the hanger | You spaced the anchor cords in Step 3 unevenly. Undo them and re-space to equal quarters around the ring. |
| Beads slide out of position mid-daisy | The vertical lark’s heads in Step 5 weren’t pulled tight enough. Undo the daisy above the loose bead and re-tie the lark’s heads snugly. |
| Pot doesn’t fit in the basket | The alternating square knot row in Step 11 is too tight. Loosen it a bit or add an extra row of spacing above it. |
| Hanger tilts to one side when you hang it | The gathering knot at the bottom isn’t centered under the pot’s weight. Redo the Step 12 knot with the hanger hung from its ring so gravity centers everything. |
| Fringe is choppy and uneven | Comb everything straight first, then trim in one clean line. If it’s still uneven, trim in small increments — a millimeter at a time. |
What to know before you start
The one spot most people get stuck: bringing the middle cords back up for the half hitch in Step 7. Watch that portion of the video twice. It’s not hard, just fussy. If you feel yourself getting frustrated during Steps 7–9, put it down for 20 minutes. Come back with fresh eyes and it’ll click.
Ready for the next project?
If this plant hanger clicked and you want more like it — multi-tier hangers, boho wall hangings, macramé bags, home decor — the Bochiknot Patreon library has every project I’ve made in the last five years with downloadable PDF patterns and bonus video walkthroughs.
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💛 Made this plant hanger?
Tag @bochiknot and use #BochiknotProjects on Instagram — I feature reader projects every week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is the finished plant hanger?
The completed hanger is approximately 7 inches wide with a pot inside and 37 inches tall, measured from the top of the ring to the bottom of the fringe.
Is this tutorial suitable for absolute beginners?
Yes. The pattern only uses beginner-level knots (crown, lark’s head, square, half hitch, gathering) and the daisy pattern is very forgiving of small tension inconsistencies. If you’ve tied a square knot before, you’re ready.
What cord size should I use?
4mm single-strand recycled cotton cord. It has the perfect balance of strength (to hold a plant pot) and softness (so the daisy pattern shapes beautifully). Avoid 3-ply or braided cord for this project — the pattern loses definition.
What size beads do I need?
Wooden or large-hole beads with at least a 5mm hole. The doubled cord needs to pass through cleanly. Round beads and barrel beads both look beautiful; pick whichever matches your decor.
How long does the whole project take?
2–3 hours depending on your pace. Most beginners finish in 3 hours the first time; the crown knots in Step 2 take the longest.
How much does this plant hanger cost to make?
Under $10 in materials if you already have basic tools. A comparable handmade beaded plant hanger on Etsy or Anthropologie runs $35–$85.
Can I use a different diameter cord?
Yes, but adjust the lengths. Thicker cord (5–6mm) eats more length per knot — add 15–20% to each cord length. Thinner cord (3mm) uses less but the daisy pattern will look daintier.
What’s a daisy knot pattern?
The daisy knot pattern (Steps 7–9) creates a flower-like decorative element by bringing the middle cords up through a hole and anchoring them with a square knot. It’s one of the most popular decorative patterns in modern macramé plant hangers.
Can I sell finished plant hangers made from this pattern?
Yes — sell the finished hangers freely at markets, on Etsy, or anywhere else. The pattern itself is copyrighted so please don’t redistribute the written tutorial as your own.
What size plant pot fits?
A 4–6" pot fits perfectly. If you want to hold a larger pot, you’ll need to loosen the alternating square knot row in Step 11 or add an extra spacing row.
Can I use a metal ring instead of wood?
Absolutely. Metal rings give a slightly more modern look; wooden rings feel warmer and more boho. Both work identically for the construction.
Do I need all 4 beads or can I use fewer?
Four beads gives you one daisy per quarter around the hanger. You can use 2 beads for a simpler design (a daisy on the front and back), or skip the beads entirely for a bead-free version.
Where can I buy the exact cord and beads I need?
The 4mm recycled cotton cord and large-hole wooden beads are available in the Bochiknot shop. Local craft stores usually carry them too.
How do I hang this on drywall?
Use a wall or ceiling hook rated for at least 5–7 lb. Once you add a plant pot filled with soil, the whole hanger can weigh more than you’d think.
How do I clean a macramé plant hanger?
Dust gently with a soft brush, or use a hair dryer on cool setting to blow dust out of the fringe. Avoid water — cotton cord absorbs it and takes forever to dry.
Can I make this in a different color?
Yes. The pattern works with any single color of cord. Natural cotton is the most classic look, but rust, sage, and cream all look gorgeous. Rainbow-colored cord makes a fun kids' room piece.
What’s the difference between a plant hanger and a plant hammock?
A plant hanger holds the pot from above using multiple cord strands that cradle the pot in a basket shape (like this project). A plant hammock is a fabric or macramé sling suspended between two points, cradling the pot horizontally.
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
A beaded plant hanger is one of my favorite “first real project” recommendations. The pattern is beginner-friendly enough that you won’t get discouraged, but the daisy centerpiece has enough visual complexity that you feel genuinely proud when it’s finished. That combination of low-frustration and high-payoff is exactly what makes a project stick.
If you make one, please tag @bochiknot — seeing your projects is genuinely the best part of my week.
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