Knot Your Own DIY BOHO-CHIC Macrame Bag You’ll ADORE

I’ll never forget the first time I tackled a macramé handbag.

I had my cord all set up, my pattern ready, and—let’s be real—no idea if this thing would actually look like a bag by the end!

But knot by knot, I got into the rhythm, watching as those simple twists and turns turned into something really special.

When I held that finished bag in my hands, I couldn’t believe I’d actually made it—and I wanted to make a dozen more right away!

That’s the journey I’m inviting you on with this tutorial. If you’ve ever wanted to create something that’s totally you, with that perfect boho vibe, this is your moment.

I’ll guide you through every knot and twist, so by the end, you’ll have a gorgeous, fringed macramé handbag you’ll be dying to show off.

Ready to jump in? Let’s make something beautiful together!

Knots You Need to Know to Make a Macrame Boho-Chic Handbag

Ready to dive into the world of macrame?

To bring this boho-chic fringe bag to life, you’ll want to get cozy with a few essential knots.

Here are the ones you’ll need:

Lark's Head, Square Knot, Double Half Hitch, and Rya Knot—these knots are your toolkit for a world of macrame magic.

The Lark’s Head Knot is where it all begins. Think of it as the anchor that attaches your cords to your dowel or ring, creating a sturdy starting point for the rest of your design.

The Square Knot is the heart of many macramé patterns. This knot’s alternating design makes it perfect for both structure and style, giving your bag that beautiful, woven look.

The Double Half Hitch Knot is your go-to for versatility. Once you get the hang of it, this knot unlocks all kinds of intricate patterns, adding flow and structure to your bag.

The Rya Knot, or rya loop, brings that coveted fringe to life!

Traditionally used to add a row of fringe, it adds texture and that signature boho flair when used throughout your project.

Understanding these knots, and you’re all set to create a fringe-tastic boho bag and more!

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.

Important Macrame Terms for Beginners

Before we begin, we should review a few important terms used in macrame.

This will help you understand the techniques more easily, follow patterns confidently, 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 solid 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 cords 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 are often used intentionally as decorative elements like frays or tassels in your design.

Macrame Fringe Boho Bag Cords and Materials

 

For this fringe boho bag, we’re keeping it classic with a 4mm single-strand cord from our Foundation cord line.

The natural color and sturdy texture make it an ideal choice for all skill levels, offering the perfect blend of softness and durability.

This cord holds its shape beautifully, making your knots pop while ensuring your bag stands up to everyday use. 

Other Supplies & Materials:

Two x 4.3” Metal Rings: These rings will form the handle of your bag, giving it a chic, polished look and a comfortable grip.

The metal also adds a bit of structure to balance out the softness of the fringe.

Macrame Essential Tools

• Scissors
• Measuring Tape
• Macrame Fringe Comb

Macrame Fringe Boho Bag Details

Skill Level:

• Beginner Advanced - Intermediate

Completed Size:

• Macramé Dimensions: 9.5” (25cm) wide x 7.5” (20cm) long.

Completion Time:

• 2-3 hours depending on skill level 

Materials Needed (for 1 unit):

• 4mm macrame cotton cord
• 2 x metal rings handles

Cotton Lengths Needed:

• 48 x 170cm (67")
• 2 x 45cm (18")
• Bunch of smaller scraps at 12-15cm long 

BOHO-CHIC Macrame Bag | Video Tutorial

BOHO-CHIC Macrame Bag | 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:

• Attach 8 cords (170cm each) to one ring using Reverse Lark's Head knots.

Step 2:

• Make a row of Square knots, then follow with a row of Alternating Square knots.

Step 3:

• Fold 2 additional cords (170cm each) in half and tie a Square knot.
• Attach this on the left side of the bag with an Alternating Square knot.

Step 4:

• Repeat Step 3 on the right side.

Step 5:

• Add three individual Square knots on both the left and right sides.

Step 6:

• Create a V-shaped Square knot pattern, continuing until only one Square knot is left at the bottom.

Step 7:

• Take the second ring and repeat Steps 1-6.

Step 8:

• Attach both sides by making one Alternating Square knot, then add two more Alternating Square knots underneath.
• Repeat on the other side.

Step 9:

• For the next row of Alternating Square knots, leave a 1cm gap from the previous row.

Step 10:

• Start a new row of Square knots from the sides, then make diagonal Square knots to the front and back.

Step 11:

• Repeat the pattern two more times around the bag. 

Step 12:

• Fill in the remaining sides with rows of Square knots.

Step 13:

• Flip the bag inside out.
• Use the middle 8 cords on each side as anchors to make a row of large Square knots at the bottom.

Step 14:

• Using a 45cm cord as an anchor, make a row of Double Half Hitch (DHH) knots on one side.
• Repeat on the other side.

Step 15:

• Tie the anchor cords from both sides with a DHH knot to secure.

Step 16:

• Trim any excess cord at the bottom and flip the bag back to the right side. 

Step 17:

• Using leftover cords, attach 12-15cm lengths as Rya knots in the 1cm spaces around the bag’s pattern.

Step 18:

• Trim the fringe to finish.

And there you have it—your very own boho-chic fringed macramé handbag!

With each knot, you’ve created a one-of-a-kind piece that’s as stylish as it is personal.

We hope you enjoyed this journey into macramé and feel inspired to take on even more projects.

If you'd like to dive deeper into the world of macramé, don’t forget to visit our Macramé Journey page, where you'll find more tips, tutorials, and inspiration to keep your creativity flowing.

Happy knotting!