How do you make a handmade macrame hanging basket?

Answer 1

A typical macrame bracelet / necklace has 2 basic components: a core & 2 or more woven threads. The core can be hemp (or a similar material) or a soft metal (bracelets only). Here are the steps to use to make a simple clasp style bracelet: 1. Secure 1 end of the soft metal core in a vice. (Bike spokes, small construction site flag markers or similar material works fine.) For a 7.5" bracelet, you should have a core at least 10" long. You'll cut it to length later. 2. Cut a length of hemp (or similar material - I use mason's line) approx. 35 - 40" long & tie a loose overhand knot in the center. Slide the knot over the core up to a point near the vice. 3. Weave the 2 loose ends of the hemp into a square knot w/ the core in the center, as follows: a). Hemp 1 (rt. side of the core) over the core. Hemp 2 (lt. side of the core) over Hemp 1, under the core & up through the loop between Hemp 1 & the core. Tighten the knot. b. Hemp 2. b). Hemp 2 (now rt. side of the core) under the core. Hemp 1 (now lt. side of the core) under Hemp 2, over the core & through the loop between Hemp 2 & the core. Tighten the knot. 4. Repeat this 2 step process until you reach the 7.5" length of the core. Try to be consistent w/ the amount of pressure you use to secure each knot. 5. Secure the woven threads to both ends of the core w/ a dab of Super Glue. Cut the threads when the glue has dried. Cut the core to the desired length. Slide both ends of the woven bracelet back from the ends of the core a little & file / grind the ends slightly rounded. 6. Pull the ends of the woven bracelet back to the core's ends and secure w/ more Super Glue. 7. Bend the bracelet to the desired shape. Here are links to a site that will show you a similar technique: http://www.yourfunfamily.com/Hobbies/macrame.html (knots to use) http://www.yourfunfamily.com/Jewelry/macramebracelets.html (bracelet designs) Hope this helps.

Answer 2

http://www.angelfire.com/ca7/sierratses/instructions.html