DIY Beaded Hemp Bracelet with Macrame Square Knots

Updated at: 10/05/2025

Dive into the world of handcrafted jewelry with this guide to creating a stunning DIY beaded hemp bracelet featuring intricate macrame square knots. This project is perfect for both beginners and experienced crafters, offering a satisfying blend of simple techniques and visually impressive results. The earthy texture of hemp cord, coupled with the vibrant pops of color from your chosen beads, will create a unique and stylish accessory you'll be proud to wear, or even gift to a friend. The combination of macrame knotting and beading adds a beautiful textural element, elevating this simple bracelet beyond the ordinary.

This tutorial will walk you through each step, from gathering your materials to securing the final knot, ensuring you achieve a perfectly finished bracelet. Prepare to be amazed at how easily you can transform humble materials into a piece of wearable art. Let's get started with a detailed, step-by-step process that will guide you through the creation of your very own beaded hemp bracelet.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Hemp cord
  • 20 Matubo beads
  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Mini macrame board
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp scissors to cut hemp cord. Dull scissors can cause the cord to fray or slip, leading to uneven knots and potential injury.
  • Avoid pulling the hemp cord too tightly while knotting, as this can damage the cord and make it difficult to work with. Aim for a consistent, comfortable tension.
  • Keep small beads and cord pieces out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or choking hazards.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • one 3 feet long and another 5 feet long.

  2. Create Initial Knot and Secure

    • Create an overhand knot using the two cords, ensuring loops are even.
    • Secure the knot to the macrame board.
    Secure the knot to the macrame board.Secure the knot to the macrame board.
    Create Initial Knot and Secure

  3. Separate Cords

    • two shorter cords in the center, two longer cords on the sides.
    Separate the cords: two shorter cords in the center, two longer cords on the sides.
    Separate Cords

  4. Add Beads and Square Knots

    • bring the right cord over, around the back, and through the loop; repeat with the left cord.
    • Slide a Matubo bead onto both cords and up to the knot. Repeat steps 5 and 6 until desired bracelet length is reached.
    Slide a Matubo bead onto both cords and up to the knot. Repeat steps 5 and 6 until desired bracelet length is reached.
    Add Beads and Square Knots

  5. Finish and Secure Bracelet

    • Gather all four cords and tie an overhand knot, leaving a small gap for the clasp.
    • Tie another overhand knot to secure the first one. Trim the excess cord, leaving about an inch.
    Tie another overhand knot to secure the first one. Trim the excess cord, leaving about an inch.
    Finish and Secure Bracelet

Read more: DIY Crystal Bracelet: Easy Square Knot Tutorial

Tips

  • Use generous cord lengths to account for fraying and potential adjustments.
  • Check the bracelet length frequently by wrapping it around your wrist.
  • Leave extra cord length for adding beads or making adjustments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Bead Spacing

Reason: Inconsistent tension while adding beads can lead to uneven spacing between them, making the bracelet look unprofessional.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension throughout the braiding process, paying close attention to the spacing between each bead.

2. Loose or Slipping Knots

Reason: Insufficient tightening of the macrame square knots can result in a loose bracelet that easily comes undone.
Solution: Ensure each square knot is firmly cinched and pulled tight before moving on to the next knot.

3. Inconsistent Hemp Cord Tension

Reason: Varying tension in the hemp cords creates an uneven and aesthetically unpleasing bracelet.
Solution: Maintain even tension on both hemp cords throughout the entire braiding process.

FAQs

What type of hemp cord is best for this project?
A 4mm or 5mm hemp cord works well. Thicker cords are easier for beginners, while thinner cords allow for more intricate knotting.
What kind of beads should I use?
Use beads that have a hole large enough to easily slide the hemp cord through. Seed beads, wooden beads, or gemstone beads all work well. Experiment with different sizes and colors!
How do I adjust the bracelet size?
Before securing the final knot, try the bracelet on. If it's too big or small, adjust the length of the hemp cord before completing the knotting. You can also add or remove beads to fine-tune the fit.