DIY Macrame Drawstring Backpack: Create a Stylish and Functional Bag

There’s something special about creating your own macrame bag.

You’re not just making a functional accessory—you’re weaving creativity and personality into something you’ll carry daily.

One of my favorite creations is macrame bags, especially the drawstring backpack.

They’re so versatile!

This bag is the perfect go-to whether you're dressing up for a night out or keeping it casual for a day trip.

The best part?

Your hands can do whatever you need while your essentials stay secure and out of the way.

Curious about how to make your own?

I’m excited to take your through, step-by-step, on how to knot this drawstring backpack.

What You’ll Learn

I'll be walking you through, in detail, how to make a gorgeous macrame drawstring backpack perfect for anything from a casual day out to a fun night on the town.

You’ll learn all the key macrame knots—like the Lark’s Head, Square knots, and even the super-cool Berry knot—to bring your design to life.

 I’ll also share some tips for adding your personal touch, whether with bold colors or fun embellishments.

Plus, I’ve got some pro tricks to ensure that your bag is not only cute but sturdy enough to carry all your essentials hands-free.

By the time we’re done, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind backpack that’s stylish and totally you!

Macrame Knots You Need to Know

Before diving into making your macrame drawstring backpack, let’s talk about a few fundamental knots we’ll use.

Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with them yet—I’ll walk you through each as we go.

But having a basic understanding of these knots beforehand can make everything flow a bit smoother and, honestly, even more fun!

Knowing these knots will help you feel confident working through the design.

Plus, it might spark your creativity for future projects.

The main knots we’ll be working with are simple but essential: the Lark’s Head knot to start by securing the cords, the Square knot for strength and structure, and the Berry knot for adding a little texture and personality to your bag.

If you’ve used these before, you’ll feel right at home.

But if they’re new to you, no worries—I’ve got your back and will guide you every step.

By the time we finish this project, you’ll be a pro with these knots, and they’ll unlock so many creative possibilities for your next macrame adventures!

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 quickly, 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 critical 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 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.
• 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.

Cord, Supplies, & Tools to Make a Wave Braid Knot Pattern

You'll need a few essential items to macrame a drawstring bag.

Here’s a quick guide to the cords, supplies, and tools that will make your knotting experience enjoyable and successful:

5mm Cotton Cord

The 5mm cotton cord will be the show's star for your macrame drawstring bag. It’s sturdy enough to hold the structure but soft enough for easy knotting.

Using high-quality cotton cords will make your bag durable and comfortable to carry.

Scissors

Sharp scissors are essential for clean cuts. A sharp pair will ensure smooth, precise cuts and a professional-looking finish.

Measuring Tape

Measuring your cords accurately before you start is vital to a successful project.

With measuring tape, you can ensure that all your cords are the right length, helping you avoid running short mid-project.

Inner Bag (optional)

The inner bag will keeps your belongings secure, preventing smaller items from slipping through the macrame net.

Plus, it gives the macrame structure, helping the bag hold its shape.

Any simple bag, like a fabric pouch or tote, will work if it fits your design well.

Tip: You can find all these supplies on our Bochiknot SHOP. Be sure to check out our latest deals for some great discounts on macrame essentials.

Macrame BOHO-CHIC Drawstring Backpack Details

Skill level:

• Advanced-Beginner / Intermediate

Completed size:

• Approx. 12” length x 12" height

Completion time:

• 1-3 hours depending on skill level

Materials needed (for 1 unit):

• 1 x 5mm macrame cord 
• 1 x Sharp scissors
• 1 x Measuring tape
• 1 x Inner bag (Optional)

Cord lengths: 

• 2 x 290cm (114")
• 12 x 300cm (118")
• 16 x 200cm (79")
• 1 x 100cm (40")

How to Macrame a BOHO-CHIC Drawstring Backpack | Video Tutorial

How to Macrame a BOHO-CHIC Drawstring Backpack | 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: 

• Take two cords that are 290cm long, fold them in half, and place them with the loops facing each other.
• These will form the drawstring part of your bag.

Step 2: 

• Attach twelve 300cm cords to the two base cords using Lark’s Head knots.

Step 3: 

• Flip the pattern upside down and attach fourteen 200cm cords to the remaining two base cords with Lark’s Head knots.

Step 4: 

• Turn the pattern upside down again and attach two more 200cm cords, one on each side, using Lark’s Head knots.
• The side with the longer cords will form the front of the backpack.

Step 5: 

• Skip the first two cords on the left, and with the next four cords, create a Berry knot by tying three Square knots.
• Weave the middle two cords through the hole above the first Square knot and tie another Square knot underneath.
• Repeat this until you have a row of six Berry knots.

Step 6: 

• Leave a 3cm gap beneath the Berry knots and make a row of five Alternating Square knots.

Step 7: 

• Turn the pattern upside down and skip the two far-left cords.
• Use the next four cords to tie a Square knot.
• Continue to the right, making a row of six Square knots.

Step 8: 

• Leave 3cm of space and create another row of Alternating Square knots.

Step 9: 

• Use the far-left four cords to create a Square knot in line with the previous row.
• Do the same on the far right. 

Step 10: 

• Flip the pattern upside down and make a Square knot on both the right and left sides, keeping them in line with the previous row.

Step 11: 

• Leave a 1cm space and create another row of Alternating Square knots.
• Flip the bag upside down and repeat this step.

Step 12: 

• Place the sides together, one on top of the other, with the back of the bag facing you.
• Use the two far-left cords from both the front and back to make a Square knot, then repeat on the right.

Step 13: 

• Flip the bag so the front faces you.
• Leave 3cm of space and create a new row of five Berry knots.
• On the far left and right, add Alternating Square knots to align with the Berry knots. 

Step 14: 

• Turn the pattern upside down, skip 3cm, and make a row of Alternating Square knots. 

Step 15: 

• Flip the bag again and make a row of Alternating Square knots along both the front and back.  

Step 16: 

• Skip 3.5cm and make a row of six Berry knots.
• Follow this with another row of Alternating Square knots on the back.

Step 17: 

• Skip 3.5cm again and add a row of Alternating Square knots all around the bag.
• Add five Berry knots to the front and another row of Alternating Square knots on the back.

Step 18: 

• Turn the bag inside out and align the last row of Square knots between the front and back, pairing them up.
• Separate the far-left and far-right bottom Square knots, and place the middle four cords from each side into the center.
• Tie these cords together using a Double Overhand knot.

Step 19: 

• Using a 100cm cord as an anchor, make a row of Double Half Hitch (DHH) knots along the bottom of the bag.
• Cut off any excess cord. 

Step 20: 

• Flip the bag right side out.
• Weave the drawstrings through a loop at the bottom.
• Measure 45cm of the strap from bottom to top, then secure the bottom using a Barrel knot.
• Wrap the loose end of the cord around your finger three times, pull the loose end through the loop, and tighten the knot.

Step 21: 

• Trim any remaining excess cord. Your drawstring backpack is now complete!

 

And there you have it—your very own handmade macrame drawstring backpack! 

From day trips to nights out, it’s a versatile accessory that’s as beautiful as it is practical.

If you loved this project, don’t forget to share your creations with us by tagging @Bochiknot on social media.

Happy knotting, and I hope you enjoy carrying your creativity with you wherever you go!