The macramé cord calculator estimates the total cord needed for wall hangings, plant hangers, and shelf projects. Get cord counts, lengths per piece, and total footage to buy.
Calculate Macramé Cord
How to Calculate Macramé Cord Length
Always buy 15-20% more cord than calculated — knot tightness varies and it's expensive to run short mid-project. Cotton macramé cord is sold by weight (100g, 200g, 500g) or by the spool (100m, 200m). Check the meters-per-100g ratio on the label when comparing prices.
Cutting Your Working Cords
Fold each working cord in half before attaching — so a 96-inch piece becomes two 48-inch working strands after a lark's head knot on the dowel. Double the number of physical cords you cut if counting working ends vs. physical cords. A 20-cord wall hanging uses 10 physical pieces of cord, each folded in half.
FAQ
How much cord do I need for macramé?
The general rule is to cut each cord 4× the finished length for basic square knot patterns. For complex patterns with more knots, use 5-6× the finished length. For a 24-inch wall hanging: each cord = 24 × 4 = 96 inches (8 feet). Add 10-15% extra for knot tightness and finishing.
How do I calculate total macramé cord needed?
Total cord = (number of cords × cord length per piece). For a wall hanging with 20 cords each 8 feet: 20 × 8 = 160 feet. Since cord is sold by weight (most 3mm cotton cord weighs ~75g per 100m), convert total meters to grams: 160 feet = 48.8m ÷ 100m × 75g = 36.6g per 100m, so about 50g skein minimum.
What cord thickness is best for macramé?
3mm twisted or braided cotton cord is the most versatile for beginners — good for plant hangers, wall hangings, and shelves. 5mm is better for furniture and thick wall hangings. 1-2mm works for jewelry and detailed work. Twisted (3-ply) cord gives a more rustic look; single-strand gives a clean, modern look.
Is this macramé calculator free?
Yes, completely free with no signup needed.