Once you have chosen a macrame wall hanging, three questions come up: which pattern suits your space, how to hang it safely, and how to keep it looking fresh. This guide covers all three. If you are still deciding on size and materials, start with our macrame wall hanging guide.
Popular macrame wall hanging patterns
Most designs are built from a few simple knots repeated in different ways.
- Square knot panels. Rows of flat square knots create a tidy, woven-looking block. They suit modern, minimal rooms.
- Spiral patterns. Half knots twist naturally into a spiral. They add movement and feel relaxed and organic.
- Diamond lattice. Alternating knots form diamond shapes. It is a classic, slightly vintage look.
- Feather or leaf shapes. Cords are combed and trimmed into a feather-like outline. Soft and decorative, they work well above a bed.
- Fringe-only designs. A few knots at the top and long, trimmed fringe below. A very simple, contemporary look.
- Mixed designs with beads or rings. Wooden beads or metal rings add accents and contrast.
The names of the knots you will hear are the lark's head (used to attach cords to the dowel), the square knot, the half knot (which twists into spirals), the half hitch and double half hitch (used for diagonal lines and shapes) and the gathering knot (used to bundle cords together).
Choosing a pattern for your room
- Minimal or Scandinavian rooms: choose clean square knot panels or fringe-only designs in cream or white.
- Boho spaces: try layered, textured pieces with spirals, beads and long fringe.
- Traditional rooms: diamond lattice patterns blend with classic furniture.
- Small walls: a narrow vertical pattern draws the eye up and suits tight spaces.
How to hang a macrame wall hanging
Hanging it well keeps the piece balanced and protects both the wall and the cord.
- Find the center. Mark the spot at eye level, or 6 to 10 inches above a sofa or headboard.
- Choose the hardware by weight. A lightweight piece may sit on a small nail or removable adhesive hook rated for its weight. Heavier pieces need a wall anchor or a sturdy hook screwed into a stud.
- Use the dowel's own cord. Most dowels have a loop of cord at each end or a single top loop. Hang the loop on a hook so the dowel sits level.
- Level it. Step back and check that the dowel is straight. Small adjustments to the loops can fix a tilt.
- Shape the fringe. Comb the cords gently so they hang evenly.
For a hanging from a branch, tie both ends of the branch to two hooks using strong cord, or hang it from a ceiling hook if you want it to float in front of a window. See our tapestry hanging guide for other hanging methods.
Avoid hanging macrame in direct sun, near a stove or above a radiator. Heat, light and grease all shorten the life of natural cord.
How to clean a macrame wall hanging
Regular light cleaning prevents dust from becoming ingrained.
- Dust weekly or monthly. Use a soft brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment on low suction.
- Shake it outdoors. A gentle shake releases dust from the knots.
- Comb the fringe. A wide-toothed comb untangles strands and restores their shape.
- Spot clean. Dab marks with a cloth dampened with cool water and a drop of mild detergent, then blot dry.
- Wash if needed. For a cotton piece with no wooden or metal parts that could be damaged, you can hand wash it in cool water with mild detergent, rinse well and press out the water. Remove the dowel first if it is detachable, or keep it out of the water.
- Dry flat or hung. Reshape the piece, lay it flat on a clean towel or hang it away from direct heat, and let it dry completely before moving it. Trim any uneven strands afterward.
Avoid bleach, hot water and tumble drying, which can shrink, weaken or discolor the cord. Always check the care label if the maker provides one.
How to stop macrame from yellowing
White and cream cotton naturally warms in tone over time. Several things speed it up:
- Sunlight. UV light is the biggest cause, so keep the hanging out of direct sun.
- Dust and oils. Dirt, cooking grease and skin oils settle in the cord. Regular dusting helps.
- Humidity. Damp rooms encourage mildew and discoloration.
- Storage. If you store a piece, wrap it in clean cotton or acid-free paper rather than plastic, and keep it in a dry place.
A gentle hand wash can lift surface grime, but it will not reverse deep yellowing, so prevention is the best approach.
Can macrame hang outside?
Cotton and jute are not weatherproof. A covered porch with no direct sun or rain can work for a short time, but moisture and light will age natural cord quickly. For permanent outdoor use, choose weather-resistant synthetic cord made for outdoor decor.
Frequently asked questions
How do I clean a macrame wall hanging? Dust it regularly with a soft brush or low-suction vacuum, spot clean marks with mild detergent and cool water, and hand wash only if the materials allow.
How do I keep a macrame wall hanging from yellowing? Keep it out of direct sunlight, dust it often and avoid humid or greasy rooms such as kitchens.
How do I hang a macrame wall hanging without damaging the wall? Use a removable adhesive hook rated for the weight of the piece, or a small nail for lightweight designs.
Can I wash macrame in a washing machine? It is safer to hand wash. Machines can tangle cords and damage dowels and beads.
What is the easiest macrame pattern? Square knot panels and fringe-only designs are the simplest, built from just a few basic knots.
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The Kindred Weave editors. We write practical guides to handmade rugs and tapestries. Learn more about us.
