How to Make a Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging Tutorial

How to Make a DIY Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging (Modern Boho Tutorial)
- Phase 1 — Mount the cords (Steps 1–2): Fold 28 strands of 4mm cord at 180 cm and mount on a 16-inch dowel with Lark's Head knots. Tighten each knot snug.
- Phase 2 — First zigzag row (Step 3): Build diagonal rows of square knots from the outer cords inward — left side meets right side in the middle.
- Phase 3 — Second row + Double Half Hitch (Steps 4–5): Add a second matching zigzag row, then finish with a crisp diagonal Double Half Hitch row to lock the chevron shape.
- Phase 4 — Fringe finish (Steps 6–7): Attach 56 contrasting 40 cm fringe strands across the bottom, then trim to a V-shape and hang.
Total time: 2–3 hours · Finished size: 16–20" wide x 20–26" long · Skill level: beginner · Cost: under $25 in materials

📌 Save $80+ vs Anthropologie wall art — pin this DIY
Etsy zigzag wall hangings run $45–$120, West Elm runs $89–$169, and Anthropologie marks similar pieces up to $240. Save this DIY to your modern-boho, macramé, or wall-art Pinterest board and make one for under $25.
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🎥 Prefer to watch?
The full step-by-step video walkthrough shows every diagonal square knot in real time. The trick that makes the zigzag look crisp (stepping diagonally with the two rightmost cords plus the next two cords) is much easier to nail visually than from photos alone.
Jump to videoWhat You'll Learn
Tutorial Contents
- What is a zigzag macramé wall hanging?
- Why DIY this modern boho wall art?
- Project details (skill, size, time)
- Materials & tools you'll need
- Cord quantities & cost
- Sizing variations (small / standard / large)
- Video walkthrough
- Step-by-step tutorial (7 steps)
- Honest take — what to know before starting
- Pro tips & troubleshooting
- Common mistakes & fixes
- Zigzag vs other wall hanging shapes
- 5 ways to customize the zigzag
- Color theory for your zigzag
- Where to hang your finished piece
- Photography tips for Pinterest & Instagram
- Make it yourself vs Etsy / boutique
- Why DIY beats mass produced
- Featured in real homes
- Zigzag wall hanging FAQ
- Keep learning with Bochiknot
What Is a Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging?
A zigzag macramé wall hanging is a hand-knotted cotton wall art piece built around a horizontal wooden dowel with vertical cords mounted in Lark's Head knots. The body of the piece is formed by diagonal rows of square knots stepping down from each outer edge to meet in the center, creating a sharp V-shape (the "zigzag" or "chevron"). A finishing row of Double Half Hitch knots underneath the square-knot zigzag locks the pattern in place and gives the bottom edge a crisp angled line, while a contrasting-color fringe sits below the knotted zone for a pop of texture.
What makes this piece a modern-boho favorite:
- Reads as architectural, not "old boho." The geometric V-shape pairs equally well with mid-century modern, Japandi, coastal, and minimalist interiors — not just bohemian rooms.
- Beginner-friendly. Only three knots are used (Lark's Head, square knot, Double Half Hitch) and the diagonal pattern is forgiving of small tension differences.
- Two-color contrast. The accent-color fringe gives instant Instagram-worthy color depth without complicating the knotting.
- Rental-friendly. Hangs from a single Command hook — no nails required, weighs less than 500 g.
- Scalable. The same zigzag logic works at 12 inches for a dorm wall or 24 inches for a statement piece above a sofa.
Why DIY This Modern Boho Wall Art?
Zigzag and chevron wall hangings retail for $45 to $120 on Etsy, $89 to $169 at West Elm and Urban Outfitters, and $120 to $240 at Anthropologie. A handmade version offers four advantages:
- Cost. About $15–$25 in 4mm 3-ply cord and a $4–$6 dowel — plus an afternoon of your time.
- Custom size. Make it dorm-small, bedroom-standard, or above-the-couch large to fit your specific wall.
- Custom color. Match your room exactly instead of choosing from one of three Etsy color options.
- Sustainable. 100% cotton biodegradable cord, no synthetic backing, no fast-fashion supply chain.
Project Details
Materials & Tools You'll Need

4mm 3-Ply Cord (2 Colors)
The modern-boho favorite — holds diagonal square knot and Double Half Hitch tension cleanly with a soft matte finish
Shop cord
Scissors + Tape + Comb
The three essential tools — sharp scissors for clean cuts, measuring tape for accurate 180 cm strands, fringe comb for the final fluff
Shop tools
Bochiknot Welcome Kit
The beginner bundle — cord, scissors, comb, dowel, and pattern access in one box, perfect for first-time makers
Shop Welcome KitEssential Macramé Tools
- Rose gold macramé scissors — sharp, clean cuts for the zigzag knot ends and the final fringe trim
- Macramé measuring tape — accurate 180 cm, 75 cm, and 40 cm cord cuts
- Macramé fringe comb — brushes out the contrasting fringe into a soft, even bottom edge before trimming
- Bochiknot Welcome Kit — full bundle of cord, scissors, comb, and a dowel for first-time makers
Cord Quantities & Cost Breakdown
| Component | Cord | Quantity | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base cords | 4mm 3-ply color #1 | 28 x 180 cm (71") | Mounted with Lark's Head, forms the zigzag |
| Hanging loop | 4mm 3-ply color #1 | 1 x 75 cm (30") | Tied to both ends of the dowel to hang |
| Fringe strands | 4mm 3-ply color #2 (accent) | 56 x 40 cm (16") | Two per attachment point across the bottom edge |
Scaling for your project (small / standard / large)
| For | Dowel | Base cords | Fringe strands | Estimated cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small (dorm / apartment) | 12" (30 cm) | 20 x 150 cm | 40 x 40 cm | ~$12–$18 |
| Standard (this tutorial) | 16" (40 cm) | 28 x 180 cm | 56 x 40 cm | ~$15–$25 |
| Large (above bed / couch) | 24" (60 cm) | 40 x 220 cm | 80 x 50 cm | ~$30–$40 |
Cost estimate based on 4mm 3-ply Bochiknot cord (regular roll, $24.99). A single roll covers one standard wall hanging with cord to spare.
Sizing Variations
The base pattern uses a 16" dowel. Scale up or down depending on your wall and decor:
| Size | Dowel | Finished dimensions | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini | 8" (20 cm) | ~8" w x 14" l | Bookshelf accent, gallery-wall filler, gift |
| Small | 12" (30 cm) | ~12" w x 16" l | Dorm wall, rental apartment, above-desk office |
| Standard (base pattern) | 16" (40 cm) | ~16–20" w x 20–26" l | Bedroom, living room, hallway, gallery wall anchor |
| Large | 24" (60 cm) | ~24" w x 32" l | Above a bed or couch, statement focal wall |
| Statement | 36" (90 cm) | ~36" w x 48" l | Above headboard on king beds, large empty walls |
Video Walkthrough
How to Make a DIY Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging (Step-by-Step)
Follow the 7 steps below. Each step has photos and clear bullet instructions. If you get stuck on any step, the video above walks through every step in real time.
How the pattern works — a quick overview
This pattern builds in four phases: (1) fold and mount 28 cords on the dowel with Lark's Head knots, (2) tighten the Lark's Head knots so the cords sit cleanly against the dowel, (3) build two diagonal rows of square knots stepping inward from each side to form the zigzag, followed by a finishing diagonal Double Half Hitch row that locks the chevron, and (4) attach a 56-strand contrasting-color fringe and trim to a clean V-shape.
Step 1: Set Up the Cords to the Dowel
- Fold 28 strands of 180 cm 4mm cord in half and attach each 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 Zigzag with Square Knots
- The zigzag is worked with square knots stepped diagonally across the cords.
- Start at the far left with the first 4 cords and tie 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 plus 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 spacing between Lark's Head knots if the cords bunch up — a slight shift left or right evens out tension and keeps the diagonals straight.



Step 4: Add the Second Zigzag 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 zigzag 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 accent-color cords at a time using a 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 uses 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 are happy. A strong pair of scissors makes all the difference.
- For a hanging loop, attach a 75 cm cord to both ends of the dowel with a double overhand knot.


That's a Wrap!
Step back, admire your finished zigzag wall hanging, and hang it from a single Command hook anywhere in your home. This is one of the most beginner-friendly modern boho wall pieces in the Bochiknot library — perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, dorm walls, gallery walls, and housewarming gifts.
Honest Take: What to Know Before Starting
A few honest disclaimers before you commit
- This is genuinely beginner-friendly — but plan a full afternoon. The three knots are simple, but mounting 28 cords + tying the diagonals + attaching 56 fringe strands takes 2–3 hours your first time. Block real focus time, not a quick 30-minute window.
- Counting matters more than perfect tension. Asymmetric zigzags come from miscounting square knots on the left vs right, not from poor knotting. Count out loud as you build each diagonal.
- Your first wall hanging will be slightly imperfect — that is fine. The texture of 4mm cotton hides small tension differences. Don't unravel and restart over a single uneven knot.
- Cord lengths matter. Cutting cord too short is the #1 cause of "I ran out partway through the diagonal." Always add 10% to the recommended lengths your first time through the pattern.
- Direct sun fades natural cotton. If hung in a south-facing window, the cream tone will yellow over months. Pick a wall away from harsh direct light to keep colors bright.
- Spot-clean only. No washing machine. A dry duster or slightly damp cloth, air-dry flat — that is the safest way to keep it looking new.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Mount cords evenly first. If your Lark's Head knots are bunched on one side, the zigzag will look pulled left or right. Space them evenly across the full width of the dowel before you start the first square knot.
- Count out loud on each diagonal. 7 square knots on the left, 7 on the right. The center is where they meet. Counting prevents the most common mistake (asymmetric zigzags).
- Pull working cords tight, then adjust the anchor cords. Tension comes from the working cords (the outer two). The anchors stay loose until you tighten the working cords down on top of them.
- Leave 1 cm of space above the DHH row. The white space makes the diagonal pop visually — without it, the chevron blurs into the square knots above.
- Comb the fringe before trimming. Always brush out the fringe with a fringe comb before cutting — combed cord trims cleaner and the final shape looks intentional.
- Trim fringe last and trim with the piece hanging. Gravity changes how the fringe falls. Hang the finished piece on the wall (or a temporary nail), then trim — the V-shape will look cleaner.
- Two cord colors makes the zigzag pop. The contrast between the natural base color and the accent fringe is what makes this pattern Instagram-worthy. Don't skip the second color.
Common Mistakes & Fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Zigzag looks pulled to one side | Lark's Head knots mounted unevenly | Re-space the Lark's Head knots evenly across the dowel before knotting the zigzag |
| Left and right diagonals don't meet in the middle | Different number of square knots per side | Count out loud — match the exact number of square knots on each side |
| Square knots loose / wobbly | Working cords not pulled tight | Pull the outer two working cords tight against the inner anchor cords on every knot |
| Cords bunched above the square knots | Lark's Head knots too close together | Slide the Lark's Head knots slightly outward to create space, then re-tighten |
| Diagonal Double Half Hitch looks crooked | Inconsistent knot spacing or tension | Pull each DHH knot the same distance from the previous one — use a small ruler if needed |
| Fringe trim looks uneven | Trimmed flat without combing or with piece on a table | Comb the fringe first, then trim with the piece hanging on the wall — gravity changes the shape |
| Cord ran out partway through a diagonal | Strands cut too short | Always add 10% to recommended lengths your first time — re-cut and remount if needed |
| Wall hanging hangs crooked | Hanging loop tied unevenly to the dowel | Measure equal lengths from each end of the dowel before tying the overhand knots |
Zigzag vs Other Macramé Wall Hangings: Which Shape to Choose
Macramé wall hangings come in five primary silhouettes. Here's how the zigzag stacks up:
| Shape | Difficulty | Best for | Knots used |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zigzag / Chevron(this tutorial) | Beginner | Modern boho, geometric homes, gallery walls | Lark's Head, square, Double Half Hitch |
| Rainbow / Arch | Beginner | Nursery, playroom, whimsical kid spaces | Wrapping, gathering |
| Leaf | Intermediate | Botanical, plant lovers, garden rooms | Double Half Hitch, brush-out |
| Plain fringe | Beginner | Minimalist, modern, scandi homes | Lark's Head + cuts |
| Geometric / Diamond | Intermediate | Modern, sculptural, gallery walls | Square knot variations |
5 Ways to Customize Your Zigzag Pattern
Once you have the basic zigzag down, the pattern is endlessly remixable. Here are the five most-pinned variations:
Simple Zigzag
One zigzag row above a single Double Half Hitch — the cleanest, most minimalist version (this tutorial).
Why try it: Fastest finish, modern minimalist look.
Double Zigzag
Two parallel zigzag rows offset slightly so the V-shapes interlock visually.
Why try it: Adds depth without doubling your knotting time.
Gradient Zigzag
Cord colors fade from cream at the top to camel or rust at the bottom across the diagonal rows.
Why try it: Instagram-favorite ombré effect.
Color-Blocked Zigzag
Each diagonal line is a different color — cream, sage, mustard, and rust in alternating rows.
Why try it: Bold, modern, gallery-wall statement.
Asymmetric Zigzag
Zigzag only in the top third with a heavy fringe-dominated bottom two-thirds.
Why try it: Soft, romantic, brushed-cotton aesthetic.
Reversed Zigzag
V points up toward the dowel instead of down — an inverted chevron that reads as a mountain silhouette.
Why try it: Mountain / cabin / nature-themed rooms.
What Colors Work Best for a Zigzag Wall Hanging
The zigzag pattern is the perfect canvas for color experimentation. Four palettes dominate Pinterest in 2026:
High-Contrast (Cream + Black)
Cream base cord with a black accent fringe — the modern-boho favorite. Pairs with white walls, matte black hardware, and walnut furniture.
Tonal Minimalist (Cream + Tan + Camel)
Three shades of warm neutral cord — soft, sophisticated, and ideal for Japandi or minimalist boho rooms. Reads as art-gallery rather than craft.
Bold Accent (Cream Zigzag + Rust Fringe)
Natural cream knotted body with a saturated rust or terracotta fringe — the most-pinned Instagram combination of 2026. Pairs with leather, jute, and oak.
Seasonal Palettes
Autumn: terracotta + mustard. Spring: sage + cream. Summer: dusty blue + ivory. Winter: walnut + ivory. Make one for each season and rotate them through the same wall hook.
Where to Hang Your Zigzag Macramé Wall Hanging
The zigzag silhouette works in almost any room. Here are the six most popular placements:
Above the Bed
Centered above the headboard, 6–10 inches up. Scale to 24" or larger for queen / king beds.
Above the Couch
Centered above the back of the sofa, about 6 inches up. Pair with linen pillows and a jute rug.
Gallery Wall Anchor
Mix with 4–6 framed prints. The zigzag becomes the textural focal point that anchors the rest.
Bedroom Focal Wall
Standalone on an empty wall opposite the bed. Spotlight with a brass picture light for a curated boutique feel.
Hallway / Entryway
Hang at eye level (about 58 inches from the floor) in narrow halls. Adds texture without taking up floor space.
Office Above Desk
Standalone above a home-office desk or standing desk. Helps Zoom backgrounds look styled and intentional.
How to Photograph Your Finished Wall Hanging (for Pinterest + Instagram)
- Natural window light only — never overhead bulbs. Shoot during morning or late afternoon for soft directional light.
- Style WITH the surroundings — show the room, not just the wall hanging. Include the headboard, sofa back, or styled shelf.
- Shoot vertical 4:5 for Instagram, 2:3 for Pinterest — these aspect ratios get prioritized in feeds.
- Include a "hand at the knots" close-up — close-up texture shots double engagement vs full-wall shots.
- Tag @bochiknot with #BochiknotMakers on Instagram for a chance to be featured in our weekly story round-up.
Make It Yourself vs Buy Boutique
| Source | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Etsy similar zigzag wall hangings | $45–$120 | Pre-sized, limited color options, no customization |
| West Elm / Urban Outfitters | $89–$169 | Mass produced, often synthetic blends not 100% cotton |
| Anthropologie | $120–$240 | Designer label, smaller sizes for the price |
| Bochiknot DIY (this tutorial) | ~$15–$25 | Custom size, custom color, 100% cotton, free pattern |
Why DIY Beats Mass-Produced Wall Art
📸 Featured in Real Homes
Hundreds of Bochiknot makers have shared their finished zigzag wall hangings on Instagram. Tag @bochiknot with #BochiknotMakers on your finished piece — we feature reader makes every week in our story round-up. Use #macramewallhanging #zigzagmacrame #chevronmacrame #modernboho #bohohome #wallartdiy so other DIY makers can find your inspiration.
Tag @bochiknotZigzag Wall Hanging FAQ
What size dowel and cord should I use for this zigzag macramé wall hanging?
A 16-inch (40–45 cm) wooden dowel works best with 4mm 3-ply cotton cord. The tutorial uses 28 strands at 180 cm for the base cords plus 56 strands at 40 cm for the contrasting fringe. Stick with these proportions for a balanced modern-boho silhouette.
How big should a macramé wall hanging be for above the bed?
For a queen or full bed (about 60 inches wide), aim for a wall hanging 24 to 30 inches wide. For a king (76 inches wide), aim for 30 to 40 inches wide. Hang it 6 to 10 inches above the headboard, or 8 to 12 inches above the mattress if there's no headboard. Scale up this zigzag pattern by using a 24-inch dowel and 40 mounted cords.
What's the difference between zigzag and chevron macramé?
Zigzag and chevron are used interchangeably in macramé. Both describe a V-shaped or angled pattern created by diagonal rows of square knots or Double Half Hitches. Some artists reserve "chevron" for tighter, more uniform angles and "zigzag" for more relaxed organic diagonals — but in tutorials and product listings, the two terms point to the same modern-boho silhouette.
How much cord do I need for a wall hanging?
For this 16-inch zigzag wall hanging you need about 53 m of 4mm 3-ply cord (28 strands x 180 cm of base color + 56 strands x 40 cm of accent color + 1 strand x 75 cm for the hanger). A single Bochiknot regular roll of 3-ply 4mm covers one wall hanging with cord to spare.
What dowel size should I use?
A 16-inch (40 cm) wooden dowel about 0.5 to 0.75 inches in diameter is standard for this beginner zigzag pattern. For smaller dorm or apartment walls, drop to 12 inches and use 20 mounted cords. For statement pieces above a bed or couch, scale up to 24 inches with 40 cords.
Can I sell handmade macramé wall hangings?
Yes — handmade zigzag wall hangings retail for $45 to $120 on Etsy, $89 to $169 at West Elm and Urban Outfitters, and $120 to $240 at Anthropologie. Price your work at 3x material cost minimum to cover your time, photograph the piece against a clean wall for listings, and tag with #macramewallhanging and #modernboho on Instagram and Pinterest.
How do I hang it without damaging the wall?
Use a single Command hook rated for 3 lb or more — the finished wall hanging weighs less than 500 g. For rentals, a small adhesive picture hanger holds it without nail holes. For larger statement pieces, use a small nail or wall hook anchored into a stud or drywall anchor.
Are macramé wall hangings still in style 2026?
Yes — modern boho is one of the strongest 2026 home decor trends across Pinterest, TikTok, and Apartment Therapy. The zigzag and chevron pattern in particular is the most-pinned wall art silhouette of the year because it reads as architectural rather than dated boho, and it pairs equally well with mid-century modern, coastal, and Japandi interiors.
How do I clean a macramé wall hanging?
Dust monthly with a soft dry duster or microfiber cloth. For deeper cleaning, spot-clean with a slightly damp cloth and air-dry flat. Never machine wash — it warps the dowel mount and tangles the fringe. Brush the fringe gently with a fringe comb every few months to restore its straight, fluffed look.
Can I customize the colors?
Yes — the zigzag pattern is the perfect canvas for color experimentation. The most-pinned combinations in 2026 are cream + black (modern boho), cream + tan + camel (tonal minimalist), cream zigzag + rust fringe (Instagram favorite), and seasonal palettes like terracotta + mustard (autumn), sage + cream (spring), and walnut + ivory (winter).
What knots are used in a zigzag macramé wall hanging?
Three foundational knots: the Lark's Head knot (mounts the cords to the dowel), the square knot (builds the zigzag rows diagonally), and the Double Half Hitch knot (creates the crisp diagonal line beneath the zigzag rows). If you can tie those three, you can make this entire wall hanging.
How long does it take to make?
Plan for 2 to 3 hours total: about 30 minutes to cut and mount the 28 base cords, 60 to 90 minutes for the zigzag square knot rows and Double Half Hitch finish, and 30 to 60 minutes for the fringe attachment and trimming. Your second wall hanging usually finishes 30 minutes faster than your first.
How do I stop my zigzag from looking uneven?
Count exactly the same number of square knots on the left and right diagonals — asymmetry comes from miscounting, not from poor knotting. Keep tension consistent by tightening each knot the same amount, and slide your Lark's Head knots slightly left or right at the start if your cords bunch — small adjustments early prevent big problems later.
Can I make this in a smaller size for a dorm or apartment?
Yes. For a small dorm or rental wall, drop to a 12-inch dowel with 20 mounted cords at 150 cm long. The finished piece will be about 12 inches wide by 16 inches long including fringe — perfect above a desk or twin bed. The same zigzag pattern works at any size; just scale cord count and lengths together.
Do I need to know knots before starting?
You will have the easiest time if you already know the Lark's Head, square knot, and Double Half Hitch. The zigzag pattern is forgiving for beginners because tension and spacing matter more than perfect knot symmetry. If this is your first macramé project, practice each knot on scrap cord for 10 minutes before mounting your real cords, or start with the Bochiknot Beginner's Guide.
Can beginners make this design?
Absolutely — this zigzag wall hanging is the most beginner-friendly pillar pattern in the Bochiknot library. The diagonal logic is repetitive and forgiving, the materials are inexpensive, and the finished piece looks far more complex than the three knots used to build it. It is the perfect first macramé project. If you want even more beginner inspiration after this one, browse the 12 free beginner projects.
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Beginner's Guide
The complete 2026 guide to the 4 foundational macramé knots — start here if this is your first project
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Square Knot
The foundational knot used to build the zigzag rows in this wall hanging — must-know for all macramé
Learn the knot
Double Half Hitch
The diagonal locking knot used to finish the zigzag row in this wall hanging
Learn the knot
Lark's Head Knot
The mounting knot used to attach all 28 cords to the dowel in this wall hanging tutorial
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