10 Macrame Books That Separate Experts from Amateurs

Top macrame books recommended by Maryanne Moodie, Jonathan Adler, and Justina Blakeney to inspire your crafting journey

Updated on June 23, 2025
We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page

What if macramé wasn't just a trendy throwback but a craft with deep creative potential and practical applications? As your hands weave knots into art, macramé connects you to traditions and fresh design sensibilities alike, making it a versatile pastime worth exploring now more than ever.

Leading figures like Maryanne Moodie, author of "On the Loom: A Modern Weaver’s Guide," praise Emily Katz’s Modern Macrame for blending traditional knotting with contemporary styling. Designer and potter Jonathan Adler calls the same book the "Bible" of macramé, emphasizing its importance. Meanwhile, Justina Blakeney, founder of Jungalow, highlights its inspirational, practical guidance for both beginners and experts.

While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific skill level, style preferences, or project goals might consider creating a personalized Macrame book that builds on these insights.

Best for stylish home decorators
Maryanne Moodie, author of "On the Loom: A Modern Weaver’s Guide," brings a deep appreciation for fiber arts to her recommendation of Emily Katz’s work. After exploring traditional knotting crafts herself, she values how Katz refreshes macramé with approachable tutorials that appeal to both novices and experienced makers. She notes, "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." This perspective helped Moodie see macramé not just as craft but as a versatile design element. Also endorsing the book, Jonathan Adler calls it "the Bible" for macramé, underscoring its importance in the current creative landscape.

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!

2018·248 pages·Macrame, Rope Work, Knoting, Fiber Arts, Home Decor

When Emily Katz first discovered the timeless craft of macramé, she reimagined it as a modern art form that fits seamlessly into today’s interiors. This book guides you through 33 projects ranging from wall art to rugs, with clear instructions that suit both beginners and seasoned knotters. You learn not only the technical skills of knotting but also how to style these pieces to enhance diverse living spaces, from rustic farmhouses to sleek apartments. If you're drawn to hands-on creativity that doubles as stylish home décor, this book offers a focused, approachable way to bring macramé into your everyday environment.

View on Amazon
Best for festive craft makers
Publisher's Weekly, a leading book review publication, appreciates this book for its practical approach to festive macramé. They highlight how Strambio's detailed instructions guide you through crafting holiday decorations like tree hangings and candy cane ornaments, blending traditional knots with sustainable materials. During the holiday season, this manual helped them see macramé as both a creative and eco-friendly way to celebrate. Library Journal also endorses the book, noting its usefulness for crafters at all levels eager to add handmade charm to Christmas decor.

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.

2023·128 pages·Macrame, Fiber Arts, Rope Work, Knoting, Knotting

When Isabella Strambio discovered how simple knots could transform recycled materials into festive decor, she crafted this approachable guide blending eco-consciousness with traditional macramé techniques. You'll learn 18 essential knots and how to use natural dyes alongside tips for handling large projects, like tension control and working with irregular supports. The book offers 24 holiday-themed projects—from tree decorations to gift tags—each with clear difficulty ratings and estimated completion times. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this book invites you to create charming, textured Christmas pieces with an emphasis on sustainability and style.

View on Amazon
Best for personal macrame mastery
This personalized AI book about macrame mastery is created based on your skill level, style preferences, and specific project goals. By sharing your background and what you hope to achieve, you receive a custom guide focused exactly on the techniques and projects that suit you. This approach makes learning more efficient and satisfying by focusing on what truly matters for your creative journey.
2025·50-300 pages·Macrame, Macrame Basics, Knot Techniques, Material Selection, Project Planning

This personalized macrame book offers a tailored approach to mastering macrame techniques suited to your individual skill level and style preferences. It provides a comprehensive sequence of knotting methods, project designs, and material selections that fit your specific crafting goals. By focusing on your unique background and desired outcomes, it cuts through irrelevant advice to present a streamlined learning path that enhances both foundational skills and creative applications. The book addresses diverse project types, from decorative home pieces to wearable art, ensuring relevance and practical value. This tailored framework supports efficient skill development and creative expression within your macrame journey.

Tailored Framework
Skill Progression
3,000+ Books Generated
Best for versatile home projects
Publisher's Weekly, a respected book review publication, highlights this book as "a solid resource that offers something for everyone with an interest in the art of knotting." Their experience reviewing countless craft books adds weight to their endorsement. This recommendation suggests the book's balance between accessibility and depth makes it a dependable guide for anyone eager to explore or deepen their skills in macramé, combining clear instructions with inspiring projects that transform home décor.

Recommended by Publisher's Weekly

a solid resource that offers something for everyone with an interest in the art of knotting.

Samantha Grenier, a color engineer and macramé artist with a decade of graphic design experience, brings her keen eye for texture and shape to this collection of 40 macramé projects aimed at stylish home décor. You learn 12 essential knots through clear, step-by-step instructions complemented by vibrant photographs, enabling you to create everything from rugs and wall hangings to plant hangers and lampshades. The book balances beginner-friendly projects with advanced techniques, allowing your skills to grow naturally. If you're interested in blending natural materials with creative design to enhance your living space, this book provides a focused yet accessible guide to the craft.

View on Amazon
Best for creative knotting enthusiasts
Fanny Zedenius is a self-taught fiber artist from Stockholm whose passion for macramé turned into a full-time creative career. Since discovering the craft in 2014, she has inspired a wide audience through her business Createaholic and her bestselling books, which have been translated into 12 languages and sold over 200,000 copies. Her expertise shines through in this book, where she shares detailed techniques and projects designed to help you build your skills and bring unique fiber art creations into your home.
Macrame: The Craft of Creative Knotting for Your Home book cover

by Fanny Zedenius, Kim Lighbody··You?

When Fanny Zedenius first discovered macramé in 2014, her curiosity about ropes and knots sparked a journey that transformed into a thriving creative business. This book guides you beyond basics, offering a thorough glossary of 30 essential knots and detailed patterns for combining them. You'll also find chapters on advanced techniques like ombre dyeing and bead customization, along with 22 illustrated projects ranging from wall hangings to plant holders, perfect for personalizing your home. If you're eager to deepen your fiber art skills with clear, hands-on instruction, this book will meet your needs, though those looking for purely decorative inspiration might find it less focused on aesthetics alone.

Bestselling author with 200,000+ copies sold
Books translated into 12 languages
View on Amazon
Best for mastering knot techniques
Robyn Gough is a creative designer from Bournemouth, UK, who has shared her passion for macramé through teaching online, blogging, and television appearances. Her background as an independent business owner and crafter inspired her to compile this reference guide, blending practical advice with clear instructions. Working from her creative studio, she connects her graphic design and marketing expertise to offer a resource that supports both beginners and experienced knotters in mastering the art of macramé.
2023·144 pages·Macrame, Knoting, Knotting, Crafting Techniques, Pattern Design

When Robyn Gough first discovered the nuances of macramé, she realized that beginners and seasoned crafters alike needed a clear, well-illustrated guide to master this art. Drawing from her extensive experience teaching macramé online and her hands-on crafting background, she crafted this book as a thorough reference on knots, patterns, and motifs. You’ll find detailed explanations of all the core knots, plus contemporary designs like leaves and flowers, alongside 17 step-by-step projects ranging from wall hangings to plant holders. Whether you want to understand cord types, avoid tangles, or finish projects with stylish fringes, this book equips you with precise techniques and troubleshooting tips. It’s ideal if you’re eager to build technical skills or expand your creative repertoire in macramé.

View on Amazon
Best for daily skill advancement
This AI-created book on macrame skillbuilding is tailored to your experience and goals, focusing on daily actions that make a real difference. You share your current knotting knowledge and what you aim to achieve, whether mastering basic knots or tackling complex designs. The book then delivers a personalized 30-day plan that fits your pace and style, helping you steadily improve through targeted projects. It’s created specifically for your journey, so you get practical, relevant steps without wading through unrelated information.
2025·50-300 pages·Macrame, Macrame Basics, Knot Techniques, Daily Projects, Skill Progression

This personalized book provides a tailored approach to mastering macrame knotting through a 30-day sequence of daily projects designed to elevate your skills efficiently. It offers a step-by-step progression that fits your current level and desired outcomes, focusing on practical knotting techniques, pattern creation, and project completion with clear daily goals. By cutting through generic advice, it concentrates on actionable tasks that enhance dexterity, creativity, and design knowledge specific to your context. The book emphasizes hands-on practice, integrating foundational knots with increasingly complex patterns to build confidence and expertise in macrame within one month.

Tailored Framework
Focused Skillbuilding
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for artistic expression and jewelry
Nghi Ho is a self-taught macramé artist and content creator who turned her childhood fascination with crafting into a flourishing career. With a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design and experience as a graphic designer, she combines artistic skill with digital savvy to offer accessible tutorials and inspire creativity. Her book reflects this background, providing clear instructions and diverse projects that make macramé approachable for beginners and engaging for experienced crafters alike.
2023·212 pages·Macrame, Rope Work, Fiber Arts, Knoting, Knotting

Unlike most macramé books that focus narrowly on basic patterns, Nghi Ho draws from her rich background in fashion design and digital content creation to offer a broad yet detailed exploration of macramé techniques for all skill levels. You’ll find clear guidance on essential knots, project ideas ranging from wall hangings to jewelry, and practical insights on materials and tools, making it easy to follow whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your craft. The book also shares unique patterns and tips inspired by the author’s personal journey, including how to build a creative business around macramé, which sets it apart from typical craft manuals. If you want to deepen your hands-on skills and unleash your artistic expression through knotting, this book offers a well-rounded path forward.

#1 New Release in Ribbons, Knots, Macrame & Rope Work
View on Amazon
Best for beginner-friendly decorative crafts
Booklist, a respected voice in book reviewing, highlights how macrame has returned to popularity and praises this guide’s approachable patterns. Their endorsement comes from a broad perspective on crafting trends, noting the book’s appeal both to newcomers and those drawn to boho style. "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." This recommendation underlines how the book reshaped conventional views about macrame’s accessibility and style potential.

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.

What changed the way I think about macrame was how this book breaks down the craft into accessible steps without overwhelming you with jargon or complex tools. Drawing from Shufunotomo Co., Ltd.'s expertise in lifestyle publishing, it shows you how to master four fundamental knots and then apply them in 20 stylish projects, from wall hangings to lampshades. You’ll find detailed diagrams and clear photos that help with measurements and techniques, making the process straightforward whether you're a beginner or have some experience. This book suits anyone wanting to add a personal, handcrafted touch to their home decor without fussing over complicated patterns.

View on Amazon
Best for contemporary macrame designers
Terri Watson is a nomadic Canadian fibre artist and Chief Shenanigans Officer at Tie One On Creative, a modern macramé company. Inspired by mid-century modern design and cheeky humour, she brings a unique flair to fibre art. This book distills her years of knotting innovation into accessible projects and techniques, inviting you to explore a contemporary take on macramé that balances tradition with fresh creativity.
2022·128 pages·Macrame, Knoting, Knotting, Fibre Art, Tapestry Making

Drawing from her experience as a nomadic Canadian fibre artist and founder of a modern macramé company, Terri Watson offers a fresh perspective on macramé that goes beyond traditional patterns. You learn how to master a handful of knots to create sophisticated, polished fibre art, from vertical clove hitch tapestries to unique finishes like her streamlined scroll. The book delivers over 100 patterns, including ten detailed projects that guide you through making wall art, plant hangers, and even denim jacket panels. If you want to elevate your macramé beyond the basics and develop a contemporary style, this book opens up creative possibilities without overwhelming you with complexity.

View on Amazon
Best for spiritual and meditative artists
Rebecca Millar, a UK-based professional macramé artist and founder of Vanir Creations, channels her connection to the sacred elements through this book. She shares her expertise in crafting with natural materials and crystals, inviting you to explore macramé as a spiritual practice. Her self-taught journey and deep appreciation for elemental symbolism enrich the projects and techniques she presents, making this a distinctive resource for those seeking balance and beauty in their creative work.
2021·128 pages·Macrame, Craft Techniques, Spirituality, Crystals, Home Decor

When Rebecca Millar first discovered the spiritual connection between nature's elements and macramé, she crafted this collection to share that harmony through her art. Drawing from her experience as the founder of Vanir Creations, she guides you through 20 projects inspired by Earth, Air, Water, Fire, and Spirit, each incorporating crystals and natural colors to evoke balance and calm. You’ll learn techniques like dip-dyeing cords for ombré effects and creating pieces ranging from mooncatchers to plant hangers, all designed to deepen your appreciation of macramé as a mindful, creative practice. This book suits anyone eager to explore macramé beyond mere craft — especially those drawn to its meditative and elemental aspects.

View on Amazon
Best for skill-building from basics to advanced
Violet Miles is a skilled artisan specializing in macramé, with extensive experience in teaching and crafting intricate designs. Her passion for textiles and knotting inspired her to create this comprehensive guide aimed at both beginners and advanced practitioners. The book reflects her practical focus on techniques and creative projects, designed to help you explore macramé and build your skills systematically.
2022·115 pages·Fiber Arts, Macrame, Rope Work, Knoting, Knotting

What if everything you knew about macramé was wrong? Violet Miles argues that macramé is not just craft but a versatile textile art that blends traditional knotting with modern creativity. Drawing from her extensive experience teaching intricate designs, she walks you through essential tools, foundational knots, and a range of projects from beginner to advanced levels, including insights on setting up your workspace. The book’s chapters on business tips reveal practical ways to turn your hobby into a source of income, making it ideal for anyone eager to develop both skill and entrepreneurial confidence in fiber arts.

View on Amazon

Get Your Personal Macrame Guide in 10 Minutes

Stop following generic advice. Receive custom macrame strategies tailored to your goals and skill level.

Tailored project plans
Skill-level specific
Style-focused guidance

Join 15,000+ Macrame enthusiasts who've personalized their approach

Macrame Mastery Blueprint
30-Day Knotting System
Modern Macrame Trends
Expert Knotter’s Playbook

Conclusion

Across these 10 macramé books, clear themes emerge: the balance of tradition and innovation, the importance of foundational knots paired with creative expression, and the value of practical projects that grow your skills.

If you're just starting, Macramé for adult beginners offers a structured path from basics to advanced techniques. For rapid style integration, combine Modern Macrame and Macrame for Home Decor to bring chic handmade touches to your living space. Those drawn to spiritual or meditative crafting will find Elemental Macramé uniquely rewarding.

Once you've absorbed these expert insights, create a personalized Macrame book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. Dive in and knot your way to creative fulfillment!

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with Macramé for adult beginners if you're new; it lays a solid foundation before moving into more advanced projects. If you prefer stylish home decor right away, Modern Macrame is a great practical choice.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Macrame?

Not at all. Several books, like Macramé for adult beginners and Decorative Macrame, cater to novices with clear, step-by-step instructions while others offer challenges as you progress.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with beginner-friendly guides such as Macramé for adult beginners and Macrame Christmas for seasonal projects. Then explore Modern Macrame and New School Macramé for contemporary styles before diving into specialized books like Elemental Macramé.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can definitely pick one based on your interest—whether it's festive decor, home styling, or spiritual projects. Each book stands on its own but reading a few offers broader techniques and inspiration.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

Modern Macrame and Macrame for Home Decor provide clear, practical projects with materials lists and photos, making it easy to start crafting quickly.

How can a personalized Macrame book help me beyond these expert recommendations?

Personalized Macrame books complement expert guides by focusing on your specific experience, goals, and style preferences, saving time and boosting confidence. Explore more with a tailored Macrame book.

📚 Love this book list?

Help fellow book lovers discover great books, share this curated list with others!