Macrame for Beginners and Beyond

The best macrame book for someone who has never tied a decorative knot. Amy Mullins and Marnia Ryan-Raison, the Australian fibre artists behind the brand Eden Eve, have built an international following for their modern take on macrame, and this book distills their teaching into a clear, structured guide.

Why Start Here

Most macrame books either overwhelm you with knot encyclopedias or jump straight into complex projects. This one finds the perfect middle ground. It opens with a knot library covering the ten essential knots you actually need, then puts them to work in 12 different projects. Each project comes in two versions: a beginner-friendly one and a more advanced variation. That dual structure means you can start simple and return to the same project later as your confidence grows.

The projects themselves are practical and appealing. You will make plant hangers, wall hangings, table runners, bunting flags, and even a hanging table. The photography is bright and modern, showing the finished pieces in real home settings so you can see exactly how they will look. The instructions are accompanied by clear diagrams that make it easy to follow along even if you have never worked with cord before.

What sets this book apart from other beginner guides is how quickly it gets you making things. Rather than spending fifty pages on theory, it teaches you knots in the context of actual projects. You learn by doing, which is exactly how most people prefer to pick up a new craft.

What to Expect

At 128 pages, this is a focused book that respects your time. You could learn the basic knots and complete your first project in a single afternoon. The materials needed are minimal and inexpensive: some macrame cord, a wooden dowel or branch, and scissors. The book includes guidance on choosing materials, so you will know exactly what to buy.

The projects lean toward home decor and garden accessories rather than jewelry or fashion items. If you want to start with smaller pieces like bracelets and earrings, consider the Macrame Pattern Book as a companion. But for getting started with the craft and producing satisfying results quickly, this is the book to begin with.