10 Knoting Books That Separate Experts from Amateurs
Maryanne Moodie, Justina Blakeney, and Jonathan Adler share their top Knoting Books to enhance your craft and home decor.
What if a few well-chosen books could transform your approach to knotting, turning simple cords into stunning works of art? Knotting, especially macramé, has surged beyond hobby status, becoming a creative outlet and interior design staple. From festive ornaments to contemporary wall hangings, the craft's versatility invites both beginners and seasoned creators to tie their own stories. Experts like Maryanne Moodie and Justina Blakeney have long championed this tactile art, emphasizing its blend of technique and aesthetics.
Maryanne Moodie, author of "On the Loom: A Modern Weaver’s Guide," praises Emily Katz’s "Modern Macrame" for seamlessly merging traditional knots with modern design. Justina Blakeney, famed designer and founder of Jungalow, celebrates this book as a practical yet inspiring guide for all skill levels. Jonathan Adler, a designer and author, calls it "the Bible" of macramé’s revival, underscoring its influence. Their endorsements carry weight, reflecting deep expertise and passion for fiber arts.
While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific skill levels, project goals, or interior styles might consider creating a personalized Knoting book that builds on these insights. This approach ensures your knotting journey fits your unique creative vision and lifestyle.
Recommended by Maryanne Moodie
Author of On the Loom: A Modern Weaver’s Guide
“Drawing on the traditional craft of knotting, Emily Katz elevates macramé to the realm of art, bringing a fresh aesthetic to skills that have been handed down for hundreds of years. Her tutorials are easy to follow and perfect for beginners and advanced crafters. This is a great gift for yourself or others!”
by Emily Katz··You?
Unlike most knotting books that focus solely on technique, Emily Katz brings a fresh aesthetic perspective to macramé, blending traditional craft with modern design sensibilities. You learn not only 33 distinct projects ranging from wall art to rugs and headboards, but also how to style these pieces to complement diverse home interiors—from rustic farmhouses to urban lofts. Katz’s background as an interior designer and artist shines through in her thoughtful lifestyle tips, making the projects accessible for both beginners and experienced crafters. Whether you want to elevate your crafting skills or add unique handmade accents to your living space, this book offers clear guidance and inspiration without overwhelming you.
Recommended by Publisher's Weekly
“Macramé artist Strambio (Macramé Jewellery) shows how to create winter holiday decorations in this appealing manual. Step-by-step instructions detail how to make overhand, reversed lark’s head, and half square knots, and she outlines the pros and cons of various materials, noting that single-twist string unravels easily and that novices would be better off with more durable braided string. The boho-chic projects include a Christmas tree wall hanging made from chunky double half hitch knots, a bauble adorned with gold string and tassels, and a simple stocking made up of square knots. Elsewhere, Strambio explains how to assemble green and white napkin rings, tree ornaments resembling candy canes and snowflakes, and a basket covering with a protruding knotted “red nose.” Crafters of all levels will appreciate the helpful advice on hiding string ends (she recommends taping the tips, weaving them through the backside of a knot, and trimming the excess) and working with long strings (to avoid tangling, she suggests folding strings over themselves several times and securing them with rubber bands), but the skimpy photo illustrations might leave novices struggling to follow the instructions for the more advanced pieces. Still, this will help crafters get in the holiday spirit.”
by Isabella Strambio··You?
by Isabella Strambio··You?
When Isabella Strambio first discovered the potential of recycled materials combined with macramé, she crafted a festive guide that breaks down 24 holiday projects using accessible knotting techniques. You’ll learn to master 18 essential knots and 8 patterns, alongside natural dyeing methods that bring texture and color to your creations. The book’s clear, step-by-step photography and practical tips on managing tension and working with large pieces make it approachable for crafters at various skill levels. If you enjoy hands-on seasonal décor that blends sustainability with style, this book offers a focused, creative toolkit, though beginners might find some photo guidance a bit sparse for complex projects.
by TailoredRead AI·
This AI-tailored book on knotting delves into fundamental knotting techniques essential for beginners while offering scalable methodologies for more advanced practitioners. It provides a personalized framework that adjusts to your specific skill level and project goals, focusing on foundational knots such as square, half hitch, and lark’s head, building towards complex patterns. The guide emphasizes practical, step-by-step instruction for mastering each knot's structure and applications, cutting through irrelevant advice common in generalized texts. By tailoring content to your unique creative context, it ensures efficient skill acquisition and a solid grasp of knotting mechanics, making it a valuable complement to broader macramé and fiber art resources.
Recommended by Publishers Weekly
“a solid resource that offers something for everyone with an interest in the art of knotting.”
by Samantha Grenier··You?
What if everything you knew about macramé was wrong? Samantha Grenier challenges traditional views by blending her graphic design expertise with macramé artistry, resulting in a book that teaches you not just basic knots but how to integrate texture and color into stylish home decor. You’ll learn 12 essential knots illustrated step-by-step and explore 40 projects ranging from simple mats to intricate wall hangings and plant hangers, each accompanied by vivid photos that clarify technique. This book suits anyone eager to elevate their fiber art skills with modern, natural materials, whether you're a beginner or looking to advance your craft.
by Nghi Ho··You?
by Nghi Ho··You?
What if everything you knew about crafting with knots was wrong? Nghi Ho challenges the usual approach by blending her fashion design background with hands-on experience as a self-taught macramé artist and content creator. You’ll learn foundational knots, explore diverse projects from wall hangings to jewelry, and discover how to use macramé as a creative outlet for relaxation and personal expression. The book includes practical tutorials on materials and techniques, making it ideal whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills. If you want a fresh perspective on macramé that connects artistry with modern DIY culture, this will speak directly to your creative ambitions.
Recommended by Booklist
“Macrame is back, and this guide walks readers through several patterns sure to please those seeking classic motifs and new enthusiasts eager to embrace a boho aesthetic alike.”
by Shufunotomo Co. Ltd.··You?
by Shufunotomo Co. Ltd.··You?
Drawing from its expertise as a leading Japanese publisher of handcrafts and home decor, Shufunotomo Co., Ltd. offers a hands-on introduction to macrame that demystifies this intricate art. You’ll learn to master the four basic knots through clear step-by-step photographs and detailed diagrams, which guide you in creating everything from soft wall hangings to elegant room dividers. The book’s 20 projects range in complexity, making it ideal whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to expand your craft with stylish, boho-inspired pieces. If you want to add handcrafted warmth and texture to your living space, this book provides focused instruction without overwhelming you.
by TailoredRead AI·
by TailoredRead AI·
This personalized guide to macramé projects focuses on enhancing stylish interiors through fiber art, providing a tailored approach that aligns with your home decor preferences and skill level. It offers a structured framework for designing and executing macramé pieces that complement various interior styles, particularly bohemian and contemporary aesthetics. The book addresses material selection, knot techniques, and project scaling to fit specific spaces, ensuring relevance by cutting through generic advice. Its methodology integrates creative design principles with practical crafting steps, adjusting to your particular artistic goals and environment, resulting in fiber art that harmonizes with your unique living space.
by Violet Miles··You?
When Violet Miles noticed how daunting macramé could seem to newcomers, she crafted this guide to demystify the basics and gently lead you into more intricate designs. Drawing from her extensive teaching experience, she breaks down essential knots and techniques, showing you how to set up your workspace and select the right tools. You'll move from simple projects to advanced creations, gaining hands-on skills to make decorative items or even kickstart a small business. This book suits both curious beginners eager to grasp foundational skills and those looking to refine their craft with detailed projects and tips.
by Fanny Zedenius, Kim Lighbody··You?
by Fanny Zedenius, Kim Lighbody··You?
Fanny Zedenius, a self-taught fiber artist from Stockholm, draws on her rich experience with ropes and knots to demystify macramé in this approachable guide. You learn foundational knots, how to combine them into diverse patterns, and creative techniques like ombre dyeing and bead customization. The book walks you through 22 illustrated projects—from wall hangings to plant holders—giving you tangible skills to craft distinctive home décor. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to deepen your fiber art skills, this book offers clear examples and inspiration without overwhelming you.
by Chantel Conlon··You?
When Chantel Conlon first discovered the possibilities of mixing fibers beyond traditional macramé cords, she opened a new chapter for makers seeking vibrant, textured home décor. Drawing from her extensive experience as a macramé artist and educator, Conlon guides you through 24 projects that incorporate colorful wool roving, ribbons, raffia, and more, teaching you to weave and knot with bold creativity. You learn not just basic knots but also advanced techniques like macraweaving, enabling you to craft unique pieces such as the Zahra Chandelier and Triple Threat Plant Hanger. This book suits anyone eager to expand their fiber art skills and bring a fresh, modern look to handmade décor.
by Terri Watson··You?
Terri Watson, a nomadic Canadian fibre artist and founder of Tie One On Creative, brings her modern sensibility to the traditional craft of macramé in this manual. Drawing from her experience and global influences, she guides you through mastering a handful of essential knots to create striking contemporary fibre art. You’ll learn unique techniques like the vertical clove hitch knot and her signature scroll finish, detailed in step-by-step projects ranging from wall hangings to wearable art. This book suits anyone ready to elevate their knotting skills beyond basics, especially those interested in blending mid-century modern aesthetics with handcrafted fibre design.
by Robyn Gough··You?
Drawing from years of hands-on experience teaching macramé both online and in person, Robyn Gough offers an immersive guide that goes beyond just knotting techniques. You’ll find detailed instructions on classic and contemporary knots, as well as practical advice on selecting cords, tools, and embellishments to suit different projects. Chapters walk you through managing rope lengths to avoid tangles and finishing touches like creating smooth fringes or rustic twists. Whether you're crafting large wall hangings or delicate panels, this book equips you with the skills to confidently approach macramé projects and troubleshoot common issues, making it ideal if you're looking to deepen your craft or explore new patterns.
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Conclusion
The collection of these 10 knotting books reveals clear themes: the importance of mastering foundational knots, integrating modern design sensibilities, and embracing creative self-expression through fiber arts. If you're just starting, "Macramé for adult beginners" and "Decorative Macrame" offer gentle introductions with practical projects. For rapid style elevation, combining "Modern Macrame" with "Mixed Fiber Macramé" delivers both aesthetic and technical growth.
As you deepen your craft, "The Macrame Bible" and "New School Macramé" provide comprehensive techniques and innovative patterns to refine your skills and artistic voice. Once you've absorbed these expert insights, create a personalized Knoting book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. Tailored guidance can accelerate your progress and unlock new creative possibilities.
Whether crafting a cozy holiday decoration or designing an eye-catching wall hanging, these books and personalized tools empower you to transform simple knots into compelling stories woven with intention and style. Now is the perfect time to pick up the cords and start tying your own artistic legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?
Start with "Macramé for adult beginners" if you're new; its clear basics and gradual projects build confidence without overwhelm.
Are these books too advanced for someone new to Knoting?
Not at all. Several books, like "Decorative Macrame," cater to beginners, offering step-by-step guidance alongside projects for all levels.
What's the best order to read these books?
Begin with beginner-friendly titles, then explore design-focused books like "Modern Macrame," and finally dive into advanced technique guides such as "The Macrame Bible."
Should I start with the newest book or a classic?
Balance both. Newer books introduce fresh styles, while classics provide foundational techniques essential for all knotters.
Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?
"The Macrame Bible" emphasizes practical application with detailed instructions, while "New School Macramé" explores creative design theory alongside projects.
Can personalized Knoting books really complement these expert guides?
Yes, personalized books build on expert knowledge but tailor projects and tips to your skills and goals. Try creating your own here for focused learning.
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