How to Create a Zigzag Pattern in Macramé | Wall Hanging Tutorial

Macramé does not have to be complicated to make an impact. With just a few essential knots and a simple fringing technique, you can create a striking piece that looks far more intricate than it actually is.

This beginner-friendly zig-zag macramé wall hanging focuses on clean lines, balanced spacing, and relaxed knotting, making it easy to scale the design to suit any wall while still achieving a modern, boho-inspired look.

The design features a simple diagonal zig-zag pattern that naturally draws the eye, while soft fringe details add texture without making the project feel overwhelming.

It is beginner-friendly because consistency matters more than perfection, so even if your knots are not flawless, the finished piece still looks polished and stylish.

Ready to try it yourself? Follow the steps below and start creating your own modern macramé wall hanging today.

Getting Started: Materials and Tools

What you'll need:

• 4mm Macrame cords (2 Colors)
• 1 x 16" Dowel

Essential Macrame Tools 

You will also need some essential macrame tools:

• Scissors

• Measuring Tape

• Comb

Zig-Zag Pattern for a Stunning Macrame Wall Hanging Details

Skill level

•  Beginner to Intermediate

Completed size

• Approximately 16–20" wide by 20–26" long (including fringe)

Completion time

• 2 - 3 hours

Materials needed

•  4mm Macrame cords (2 Colors)

• 1 x 16" Dowel

Cord Lengths Needed

• 28 x 180 cm (71")
• 1 x 75 cm (30")
• 56 x 40 cm (16")

Interested in More Macrame Knots?

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.

Zig-Zag Pattern for a Stunning Macrame Wall Hanging | Video 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: Set up the cords to the dowel

• Fold 28 180 cm base cord in half and attach it 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 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 3: Build the zig-zag with square knots

• The zig-zag uses square knots worked diagonally across the cords. 
• Start at the far left with the first 4 cords and create 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 and 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 the spacing between Lark's Head knots if the cords bunch up: a slight shift left or right even out the tension and keep the diagonals straight.

Step 4: Add the second 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 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 zig-zag 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 6: Add the fringe for contrast

• For a pop of color, attach two 40 cm blush cords at a time using a simple 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 used 56 fringe strands (two per loop across 28 attachment points).

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’re happy. A strong pair of scissors makes all the difference.
• If you want a hanging loop, attach a 75 cm cord to both ends of the dowel with a double overhand knot.

Common troubleshooting & tips

• If cords bunch above the square knots, slide the Lark's Head knots slightly to create space, then re-tighten.
• Keep tension consistent: small, frequent adjustments beat big, late corrections.
• Practice the square knot and double half hitch separately until they feel natural — this project is forgiving.
• To scale the design, add more cords and extend diagonal runs — the same logic applies whether your Macrame Wall Hanging is small or large.

Final notes

This zig-zag Macrame Wall Hanging is approachable, repeatable, and flexible — once you master the three knots and the fringe, you’ve unlocked a pattern language for making countless wall hangings. Start with the basics, make small adjustments as you go, and most of all: have fun knotting.

Happy crafting!

FAQ

What size dowel and cord should I use for this Macrame Wall Hanging?

A 16" (40–45 cm) dowel works well; use 4 mm, 3-ply cord for both base and accent colors. The tutorial uses 28 x 180 cm base cords and 56 x 40 cm accent cords for the fringe.

Can I make a larger or smaller Macrame Wall Hanging with this pattern?

Yes. Increase the number of base cords and length of the dowel to scale up; reduce cords and lengths to scale down. Keep the diagonal pattern logic, and knot counts proportional for the best visual balance.

How do I keep my knots even and tension consistent?

Tighten Lark's Head knots firmly at the start, work with small adjustments after each knot, and straighten half hitch knots before moving on. Practice will speed this up — consistent, small pulls beat over-tightening.

Do I need any special tools to trim and finish?

A strong pair of fabric shears or heavy-duty scissors makes trimming easier and cleaner. A tape measure and clothespins to hold sections while you adjust are handy but optional.

Happy knotting and enjoy gifting or decorating with your tiny textured wreaths this season.

Looking for Macrame Patterns and Projects? 

I’ve got a fun variety of DIY macrame patterns for you to explore—whether you’re into creating unique wall hangings to spruce up your home or timeless plant hangers, there’s something for every skill level.

Each pattern is super easy to follow with step-by-step photos, clear instructions, and plenty of tips to help you along the way.

Ready to start creating?

Browse DIY macrame patterns on Etsy and dive into your next project.

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