Various - Macrame Bracelet Jewellery Project

Macram is a versatile knotting technique very much of the moment in the seventies think macram hanging plant holders! Thankfully you can just as easily use it to create stunning knotted necklaces and bracelets from hemp cord, which is available in a rainbow of colours. If you are a macram virgin, this project is perfect for you as it requires just one simple knot.

Five flat metal beads

One round glass bead

4.6m (5yd) of 1mm blue hemp cord

Jewellery glue

By simply changing colours and beads, each macram design takes on a different look. For example, for great summertime jewellery use natural-coloured hemp and drilled shell beads. To make a choker, extend the length of the piece to 34cm (13in).

There are several simple knots that you will need to be able to tie when jewellery making, to ensure your pieces remain intact and fastenings firmly attached. For extra security, add a drop of jewellery glue on the knots and leave to dry before trimming the tails.

Take the needle behind a thread between beads and pull through leaving a loop. Pass the needle back through the loop and pull up to make the half-hitch. Work a second half-hitch a few beads along for extra security, applying a drop of jewellery glue before trimming the tail.

Pass the left thread over the right and tuck under. Then pass the right thread over the left and tuck under the left thread and through the gap in the middle of the knot.

Cross the tail over the main thread to make a small loop, then pass the tail under the thread and back through the loop. Pull on each end of the thread to tighten the knot. You can manoeuvre the knot into position with a tapestry needle

This is a useful variation of the overhand knot. Instead of pulling the entire length of the strand through the knot, pull out a folded end to form a tight loop. The loop often functions as part of the clasp.