How to Make Macrame Knots Bracelets Easy DIY Tutorial

May 05, 2025

How to Make Macrame Knots Bracelets Easy DIY Tutorial

 

 Hey there!  If you're looking for a fun DIY project that's both relaxing and rewarding, making a simple macrame bracelet is a fantastic choice. If you're new to the world of macrame jewelry or have some experience, this guide will walk you through creating a beautiful bracelet using basic macrame knots, specifically the square knot, and finishing it with a sliding knot closure.

 

 

 

 Before we dive in, let's gather our supplies:

    Macrame cord: You can use bamboo cord, embroidery floss, embroidery thread, or linen cord. For this tutorial, we'll use linen cord.

    Beads: About 10 beads of your choice to add flair to your bracelet.

    Scissors: A sharp pair to cut your cords.

    Measuring tape or ruler: To measure your cords accurately.

    Optional: Macrame boards or a clipboard to hold your work steady.

 

 

  Step 1: Preparing Your Cords

    Cut two pieces of cord:

        One piece measuring 100 cm.

        Another piece measuring 52 cm.

    Fold the 100 cm cord in half, creating a loop at the top. This will serve as the base of your bracelet.

    Place the 52 cm cord under the two middle strands of the folded cord. This shorter cord will be your knotting cord.

 

 

 Step 2: Creating the Square Knot

 

 

The square knot is one of the most basic macrame knots and forms the foundation of many macrame bracelet patterns.

    

 add beads to center cord

 

 

Start with the right cord:

        Fold it over the middle strands and under the left cord.

    Then take the left cord:

        Pass it under the right and middle strands and through the loop on the right side.

    Pull both cords tightly and slide the knot up to the top.

    Now, reverse the process  :

        Fold the left cord over the middle strands and under the right cord.

        Take the right cord under the left and middle strands and through the loop on the left side.

    Pull tightly to complete the square knot.

    Repeat these steps—right, left, right, left—to continue forming your bracelet.

 

 

 Step 3: Adding Beads

To add some sparkle and personality to your bracelet:

    After every 7 square knots, slide a bead onto the filler cord (the middle strands).

    Continue knotting as before, ensuring the bead stays in place between the knots.

    Repeat this process until you reach your desired length.

Step 4: Measuring and Finishing the Bracelet

    Measure the bracelet around your wrist to ensure it fits comfortably. Remember to account for the sliding closure which will add some length.

    Once you've reached the desired length, tie an overhand knot at the end of the cord to secure your work.

Step 5: Creating the Sliding Closure

A sliding knot allows your bracelet to be adjustable, making it easy to put on and take off.

    Shape the bracelet into a circle, overlapping the ends.

    Use scraps of cord to temporarily tie the overlapping ends together.

    Take a new piece of cord, about 25 cm long, and center it under the overlapped strands.

    Begin tying square knots around the overlapped strands, just as you did for the bracelet body.

    Continue knotting until you've covered about half an inch.

    Sew the knotting cords into the backside of the closure to secure them.

    Remove the temporary ties.

    The overlapped strands now serve as the adjustable ties of the bracelet.

    Adjust the bracelet to fit your wrist and tie an overhand knot at each end.

    Trim any excess cord.

    Optionally, add beads to the ends of the cords for a decorative touch.

Tips and Tricks

    Different color cords can add a unique flair to your bracelet. Experiment with combinations to find your favorite macrame designs.

    Using a macrame board or clipboard can help keep your work steady, especially when working on intricate patterns.

    If you're new to basic knots, practice the single knot, spiral knot, and head knot to expand your skills.

    For a more durable bracelet, consider using waxed cotton cord or nylon cord.

    Always ensure your knots are tight and even for a polished look.

 

 

read more

♻️ DIY Eco-Friendly Paper Gift Bags: A Simple Guide

April 25, 2025

♻️ DIY Eco-Friendly Paper Gift Bags: A Simple Guide

 

 

 

 In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, finding creative ways to reduce waste while adding a personal touch to our gifts has never been more important.One delightful and eco-friendly solution is crafting your own paper gift bags using recycled materials.Not only does this approach minimize environmental impact, but it also allows you to infuse each gift with a unique, handmade charm.

Let’s get crafty, sustainably!

 

📦 Materials You'll Need

• Recycled Paper: Old packaging, paper bags, magazines, or any sturdy paper.

• Adhesive: Glue stick or adhesive tape.

• Scissors: For cutting the paper to size.

• Hole Punch: To create holes for the handles.

• String or Ribbon: For the bag handles.

• Ruler and Pencil: To measure and mark folds accurately

  

Essential Materials	Optional Tools
Recycled paper (cereal boxes, paper bags, magazines, etc.)	Hole punch
Scissors	String, ribbon, or twine
Glue stick or adhesive tape	Decorative elements (e.g., dried flowers, washi tape)
Ruler and pencil	Stamps for personalization

 

Choosing the Right Paper Packaging

Not all recycled paper is created equal. Here’s what to look for:

• Durability: Choose paper with enough thickness to hold small to medium-weight gifts.

• Texture: Matte papers are easier to work with than glossy ones.

• Design Potential: Look for colors, graphics, or patterns that fit your theme.

• Cleanliness: Avoid greasy, wrinkled, or heavily printed areas that might smudge.

Great sources include:

• Paper grocery bags

• Old calendars

• Magazine pages

• Maps

• Product packaging boxes

 Paper Thickness vs. Gift Weight

Paper Type	Recommended Gift Weight
Cereal Box Cardboard	Small to Medium (up to 1 kg)
Paper Bags	Small to Medium (up to 500g)
Magazine Paper	Small (up to 200g)
Maps	Light gifts (up to 300g)

Step-by-Step: How to Make an Eco-Friendly Gift Bag

Step 1: Measure and Cut Your Paper

• Lay your chosen paper flat.

• Decide on the size of your bag (small, medium, large).

• Mark out a rectangle using a pencil and ruler.

• Cut out your rectangle. Standard size: 10" x 14" for medium bag.

Step 2: Create the Main Body

• Lay the paper horizontally.

• Fold the left and right edges toward the center, overlapping by 1 inch.

• Glue or tape the overlap to form a tube.

Step 3: Form the Bottom

• Fold up the bottom edge by about 2 inches.

• Open the fold and press the corners inward to create flaps.

• Fold the top and bottom flaps into the center and glue securely.

Step 4: Form sides

• Fold the sides 2 inches in

 

• Unfold and this time fold inwards

Step 5: Reinforce the Bag (Optional)

• Cut a cardboard rectangle to fit inside the base and glue it in place.

• This makes the bottom sturdier, ideal for heavier gifts.

Step 6: Add Handles

• Punch two holes on each side near the top.

• Thread string, ribbon, or twine through the holes and tie knots inside.

• Alternatively, use glued paper strips for a minimalist handle.

• Tie bow

Step 7: Optional Decorate

• Add washi tape borders or stickers.

• Use stamps for names or seasonal motifs.

• Layer fabric or lace for a textural effect.

Creative Decorating Ideas

• Thematic Designs: Match your decorations to the holiday or event.

• Natural Elements: Glue on dried leaves or pressed flowers.

• Minimalist Chic: Stick to neutral tones with simple accents.

• Color Pop: Use colorful scraps or paint splashes for a fun vibe.

   

   

Tips for Sizing and Proportions

• Small bags: 6" x 9"

• Medium bags: 10" x 14"

• Large bags: 13" x 18"

• Adjust folds proportionally to ensure a stable structure.

• Reinforce with extra layers for larger or heavier gifts.

   Size Chart for Gift Bags

   

  Bag Size	Dimensions	Ideal For
  Small	6" x 9"	Small jewelry or trinkets
  Medium	10" x 14"	Small to medium gifts
  Large	13" x 18"	Larger gifts like books, bottles, or framed pictures

   

Custom Tags and Extras

• Cut shapes from leftover paper for custom tags.

• Punch a hole and thread onto the handle.

• Add a handwritten note or stamp a message.

• Personalize with the recipient’s name.

Decoration Style	Elements
Natural Elements	Dried leaves, pressed flowers, twine
Minimalist Chic	Neutral tones, simple lines, understated designs
Color Pop	Bright scraps of paper, paint splashes, washi tape
Thematic Designs	Seasonal themes, event-based decorations (e.g., Christmas, birthdays)

Benefits Beyond the Gift

• Teaches children about sustainability through crafting.

• Inspires others to reuse and recycle.

• Doubles as a keepsake or storage pouch.

• Can be reused again and again!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using flimsy paper that tears easily.

• Applying too much glue (can cause wrinkling).

• Skipping measurements and ending up with uneven folds.

• Forgetting to reinforce the base if the gift is heavy.

Eco-Friendly Gift Bag Alternatives

• Fabric gift wraps (furoshiki)

• Reusable tote bags

• Glass jars with lids and fabric toppers

• Decorated boxes made from cardboard

 

 Cute and Useful

 By choosing to create your own eco-friendly gift bags, you're not just wrapping a present—you're wrapping it in love, creativity, and a commitment to the planet. These handmade bags serve as a testament to thoughtful gifting and sustainable living. So, gather your recycled materials, unleash your creativity, and let each gift you give be a step towards a greener, more sustainable future.

 

FAQs

Can I use glossy magazine paper?

Yes, but be careful—it’s more prone to tearing and glue smudges. Use double-sided tape for cleaner results.

What glue is best?

A glue stick is neat and easy. For heavier decorations, a glue gun works well.

Can kids do this craft?

Absolutely! It’s a great project for children with some adult supervision.

 

 

 

read more

🐰Easy Bunny Soft Toy – Free Easter Sewing Pattern

April 18, 2025

🐰Easy Bunny Soft Toy – Free Easter Sewing Pattern

Looking for an adorable handmade Easter gift idea or a cute soft toy project you can whip up using scrap fabric? This DIY Bunny Rabbit Soft Toy is super beginner-friendly and fun to make. Whether you’re sewing by hand or using a machine, this project will warm hearts and spark creativity. Bonus: there’s a FREE PDF pattern included!

Let’s dive into this comprehensive tutorial that covers everything — from materials and pattern prep, to hand-sewing techniques, stuffing, adding a keychain loop, and giving your bunny a little personality.

💡 Why This DIY Bunny Soft Toy is Perfect for Beginners

If you’re new to sewing or looking for a quick, satisfying project, this DIY bunny soft toy tutorial for beginners is a perfect choice. It’s simple, fun, and doesn’t require any fancy tools or expensive materials. All you need are a few fabric scraps, some stuffing, and basic sewing supplies.

This soft toy sewing project is:

• 🧵 Beginner-friendly: No advanced skills required—great for kids learning to sew too.

• ✂️ Quick to make: Most bunnies can be completed in under an hour.

• 💸 Budget-friendly: Uses scrap fabric and basic supplies you already have.

• 💖 Customizable: Add bows, faces, or keychain loops for a personal touch.

• 🐰 Perfect for gifting: Handmade toys make thoughtful presents for Easter, baby showers, or birthdays.

Whether you're sewing by hand or machine, this soft bunny project is a low-pressure, high-reward way to build confidence and create something adorable.

✂️ Materials You'll Need

    Fabric Scraps: Two pieces large enough to cut the bunny pattern (front and back).

    Free Bunny Pattern: Download and print the pattern

    Sewing Tools: Needle and thread or sewing machine, pins, scissors, and an erasable fabric pen.

    Stuffing: Polyester toy filling or cotton wool.

    Optional Embellishments:

        10 cm long and 4 cm wide fabric strip for a keychain loop.

        Small pompom for the tail.

        Embroidery thread or fabric markers for eyes and mouth

 

 

 

 

✂️ Cutting the Bunny Pattern (x2)

1. Prepare your fabric: Iron flat and fold it so the wrong sides are facing out.

2. Trace your pattern: Use an erasable pen to trace the bunny shape twice or pin with pins.

3. Cut out 2 pieces: These will be the front and back of your bunny.

🔁 You can even cut both layers at once for perfect symmetry!

🪡 Sewing the Bunny (Step-by-Step)

With your fabric bunny shapes ready, it's time to sew.

Step 1: Pin Together

• Place the two bunny shapes wrong sides together.

• Align the edges carefully.

• Pin around the perimeter, leaving a 5 cm gap on one side (for stuffing later).

Step 2: Sew Around the Edges

You can use:

• A narrow zigzag stitch if using a sewing machine

• Or a blanket stitch or running stitch for hand sewing

🧵 TIP: Stitch about 0.5 cm from the edge for a neat look.

Don’t forget to leave that gap unsewn!

🧸 Stuffing and Closing the Gap

After sewing most of the bunny:

Fill with stuffing: Use small amounts at a time for even shaping.

 

 

 fill it to the fluffiness that suits you

 

 

🔑 Adding a Keychain Loop (Optional)

Want your bunny to hang from a backpack or keyring?

Step-by-Step:

1. Fold your 10 cm x 4 cm strip lengthwise (right sides together).

2. Sew along the edge to make a tube.

3. Turn it right side out.

4. Fold it into a loop and pin into the gap before closing.

5. Stitch the gap closed, securing the loop in place.

🎁 You now have a soft, squishy bunny keychain!

🎨 Decorating Your Bunny

Time to add some personality!

• Eyes & Mouth: Use embroidery floss or a fabric marker.

• Nose: A tiny pink triangle of felt or a stitched “x”.

• Tail: Sew or glue on a pompon.

• Bow: Add a ribbon around the neck for extra charm.

🐰 Make your bunny sleepy, happy, or silly!

✨ Creative Variations to Try

• Make mini bunnies for garlands or Easter baskets.

• Use patterned fabric for a quirky look.

• Add lavender or essential oils for scented plushies.

• Embroider names or initials for personalized gifts.

⚠️ Safety Tips for Toys

• Avoid small parts (like plastic eyes) for babies or toddlers.

• Sew all features securely.

• Use non-toxic fabric markers or embroidery thread for faces.

🌸 Start Sewing Your Bunny Today!

There’s nothing more heartwarming than giving (or receiving) a handmade gift. This bunny soft toy sewing tutorial makes it easy for anyone—especially beginners—to create a charming keepsake using leftover fabric and a bit of creativity. With the free printable bunny sewing pattern, step-by-step instructions, and optional customizations, your handmade bunny is sure to bring smiles.

Ready to hop into your next sewing adventure?

👉 Download the free bunny soft toy pattern now and get started!

📌 Don’t forget to save this project on Pinterest so you can come back to it anytime!

read more