The Cutest Macramé Wreath Ornament You’ll Make This Christmas

Create a charming holiday piece with this mini macramé wreath ornament guide, designed to feel like a boutique décor find while remaining simple and enjoyable to make.

A plain wooden ring is transformed into a textured mini wreath using classic macramé knots and soft 3D leaves, giving the finished piece depth and visual interest without unnecessary complexity.

Compact and beginner-friendly, this ornament is ideal for dressing a Christmas tree, adding to gift tags, or styling seasonal décor around the home.

The process focuses on minimal supplies, no glue, and a clean, professional finish—achieved through a small set of reliable knots and thoughtful assembly.

Whether you’re new to macramé or returning to a craft you love, this calming project offers the perfect balance of creativity and relaxation, leaving you with a festive handmade piece you’ll be proud to display year after year.

Getting Started: Materials and Tools

What you'll need:

• 3mm hollow braided cord (two colors recommended: e.g., army green + gold)
• 2" wooden ring
• 30cm ribbon for the center bow

Essential Macrame Tools 

You will also need some essential macrame tools:

• Scissors

• Measuring Tape

Macramé Wreath Ornament DIY Details

Skill level

• Beginner

Completed size

• 2.75" wide x 2.5" tall

Completion time

• 1 hour, depending on skill level

Materials needed

• 3mm hollow braided cord
• 2" wooden ring
• 30cm ribbon for the center bow

Cord Lengths Needed

• Color #1:12 x 35 cm (14")
• Color #2: 6 x 35 cm (14"), 1 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.

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.

The Cutest Macramé Wreath Ornament You’ll Make This Christmas | 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: Prepare cords for each leaf

• Cut three strands of cord, each 35 cm.
• Tape one strand horizontally to your work surface to act as the leaf 

Step 2: Attach vertical cords to the spine with double half hitch knots

• Place the two vertical cords under the horizontal spine, one at a time, and secure them to the spine using double half hitch knots (DHH) in the center. 
• Pull tight and center the knots so the top ends line up evenly. These center knots form the base of the leaf.

Step 3: Build the leaf sides with two small rows of DHH knots

• On the right side, use the far-right cord to make two DHH knots toward the left.
• Repeat mirrored on the left side.
• Tighten the anchor cords after each row. This creates the tapered sides of the leaf.   

Step 4: Add the diagonal center and close the tip.

• Make a diagonal DHH knot across the center to begin shaping the tip. 
• For the final row, you will include the working cord together with the anchor cord so the tip is closed and neat.
• After completing this, identify and trim the extra small anchor cords that were added; leave the two main anchor cords that run on each side of the leaf.

Step 5: Repeat to make six leaves and alternate colors

• Make a total of six leaves. A nice arrangement is four leaves in the accent color and two in plain green, or make all six the same color. Once a single leaf is familiar, the others will come quickly.

Step 6: Attach leaves to the wooden ring

• Split each leaf’s anchor cords in half and bring them behind the wooden ring. 
• Secure each half with a double overhand knot (two knots per leaf for a tidy hold).
• Attach three leaves on each side of the ring. Slide and position leaves so they overlap slightly for a full wreath look.

Step 7: Trim and tidy the back

• Turn the wreath over and trim excess cord ends, leaving just enough tail to tuck in. If you want extra security, dab a tiny bit of glue on the double overhand knots at the back — optional for ornaments that will be handled a lot.

Step 8: Add a hanger and ribbon bow

• Fold a 40 cm cord in half and attach it to the top of the ring with a reverse lark's head knot. Make a large overhand knot at the top of the fold to form a handle.
• Thread a 30 cm ribbon through the gap at the top of the leaves and tie a bow, making sure the decorative side faces forward. Adjust leaves inward or outward to hide cord ends and shape the wreath.
• Trim ribbon tails to the desired length.

The Final Touch

This mini wreath is a great seasonal project: small, quick, and highly customizable. Use different color combos, metallic ribbon, or wooden beads for variations that match your tree or gift wrap. If you’re just getting comfortable with double half-hitch knots, this pattern is a satisfying next step — repeat the leaf a few times and you’ll find your rhythm.

Happy knotting and happy holidays — may your tree be full of handmade charm.

Share Your Creations

I’d love to see your finished pieces inspired by this tutorial! Share your creations on Instagram and tag us @bochiknot. 

Be sure to check out our Macrame Journey page! It’s your ultimate guide to holiday-inspired macrame projects, featuring everything from intricate ornaments to eye-catching decor ideas.

FAQ

What size cord should I use if I don’t have 3 mm hollow braided cord?

If you don’t have 3 mm hollow braid, use 2.5 mm single-strand or three-ply as the closest equivalent. Add a bit of extra length to each cut (10–20%) because these cords can behave slightly stiffer and need more working length for the same knots.

How long does one ornament take to make?

Once you’re familiar with the leaf pattern, each wreath takes about 30–45 minutes from cutting cords to finishing the bow. The first one may take a bit longer while you practice the DHH sequences.

Can I use glue to secure knots?

Yes — a tiny dab of craft glue at the back over the double overhand knots adds extra security, especially for ornaments that will be handled often. The pattern is designed to hold without glue if you prefer.

How do I keep the leaves 3D and not flat?

Shape each leaf by bending the center slightly forward and pushing the inner cords toward the ring. Hollow braided cord helps the leaf keep its rounded shape; adjust tension while knotting so the rows hold a slight ridge.

Can I scale this pattern larger for garlands or wall pieces?

Yes. Increase cord length and leaf repeat count to scale up. Using thicker cord (4 mm) will give larger leaves and suits garlands, while keeping the same knot structure.

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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