Are you looking for a simple macrame project to try? A keychain is a great option. Since a macrame keychain is fairly small, you can often knock it out in one session. Plus, you only need to know how to tie three types of knots to create a stylish keychain, so it's perfect for beginners!
This guide will show you how to macrame a keychain from start to finish. And when you’re done, you'll have a fun piece to attach to your keys or give as a gift.
Table Of Contents
- Tools And Supplies For A Macrame Keychain
- Knots You Need To Know
- Creating A Macrame Keychain
- 5 Different Keychain Patterns To Try
Tools And Supplies For A Macrame Keychain
Before you can try making a keychain, you must gather a few supplies. Here's what you'll need:
- GANXXET Clasps Keychains
- GANXXET Cotton Macrame Cord: 12 feet of 3- or 4-mm
- Scissors
- Measuring Tape
- Macrame Cord Fringe Brush
- Clipboard
The cotton macrame cord from GANXXET comes in several different colors. Customize your keychain by switching up the colors you use.
Alternatively, since this project doesn't take a ton of length, it's an excellent way to use up any scrap cord you already have from previous projects.
Knots You Need To Know
Once you have your supplies, use a bit of the cord to practice three basic macrame knots, the Lark’s Head, Square, and Half-Hitch.
If you’ve already mastered these knots, move on to the next section to start your keychain. If not, here’s a quick refresher for each.
Lark’s Head Knot
You use this knot to attach your cord to your keychain clasp. To tie it, start by folding your cord in half. Then, slip the folded end over the keychain clasp and slide the two tails of the cord through the loop. Pull tight to secure it in place.
Square Knot
You’ll need to tie three Square Knots for this project. To tie it, use four cords. Bend the right cord over the middle two cords, then place the left over the new right cord.
Next, pass the left cord under the middle two cords. Finally, tuck the right cord through the loop created by the left one. Pull tight to secure it in place. Repeat this process from the other side to finish the knot.
If you remember the saying, “right over left, left over right,” you’ll be well on your way to tying this knot. And, of course, it sounds more complicated than it is, so we’ve included a video down below that covers how it’s done.
Half-Hitch Knot
Also known as the Clove Knot, this knot makes up the bulk of your keychain. It adds a decorative flair that you can’t beat.
To start, make a loop with your cord and twist it around the standing cord.
Take the end of the loop and bring it underneath the standing cord. Then, go up through the center of the loop. Pull it tightly to secure it in place.
Here's a video that covers how to tie all three of the knots mentioned above so you can tie them with ease:
Creating A Macrame Keychain
If you can tie all three of the knots above, you’re ready to make your first macrame keychain. This step-by-step guide will help.
1) Prepare Your Supplies
Using the measuring tape and scissors, cut three pieces of cord, each four feet long (48 inches).
Then, put the top part of the keychain underneath the clip of the clipboard. This will hold it in place while you work.
2) Attach Your Cords To The Ring
Once you cut your cords, attach them to your keychain clasp using the Lark’s Head Knot. You should now have six cords hanging down, two from each of the strands you tied on.
3) Tie Double Half-Hitch Knots
Now it’s time to start tying. A Double Half-Hitch is simply two Half-Hitch Knots in a row. You’ll use this knot a lot, so you'll get plenty of practice.
Start in the center and work your way to the left. Move over one cord each time you finish a set of two Half-Hitch Knots.
First, use the two middle cords. Then, use the left central cord and the second cord from the left. Then, use the two leftmost cords.
Be sure to pull your knots tight to get rid of any gaps. You should now see a slight diagonal line from your Double Half-Hitch Knots. This is part of the first spiral circle you’re creating.
Return to the middle two cords, and tie more Double Half-Hitch Knots, working toward the right this time. When you reach the far-right strand, you’ll have the top of the circle done.
4) Tie A Square Knot
Now, it’s time to switch gears and tie a single Square Knot. Use the four middle cords for this knot.
5) Add More Double Half-Hitch Knots
Now, you will finish your circle. Start on the far left and work your way toward the center.
Tie a Double Half-Hitch with the far left cord and the one right next to it. Then, move over a cord and tie another.
Before you add another knot, move to the far right. Tie a Double Half-Hitch using this cord and the cord next to it. Then, scoot toward the center one cord and tie another.
Finally, complete the circle by tying a Double Half-Hitch with the two middle cords.
6) Repeat Steps 3-5, Twice
Make another circle, with a Square Knot in the center, by repeating the previous steps.
Then, do it again a third time. Your three circles should form a spiral of sorts down through the keychain.
6) Brush Out The Fringe
To finish your keychain, use your Macrame Cord Fringe Brush to brush out the remaining cord. This will turn the cord into a soft, airy fringe.
There you have it, a completed macrame keychain. Nice job getting it done. And if you got stuck anywhere along the way, here’s a video tutorial you can refer to:
5 Different Keychain Patterns To Try
Now that you have your first macrame keychain under your belt, it’s time to stretch your skills by creating even more. Here are five different options:
Macrame Wristlet Keychain
Keep your keys close at hand with this simple wristlet-style keychain. It uses a braided cord, which gives it a great texture.
Macrame Keychain With A Bead
A couple of simple wooden beads add a unique touch to this keychain.
Easy Spiral Knot Keychain
When you only tie half of a Square Knot, you get a Spiral Knot. This keychain has a fun Spiral Knot that would look great with our Dual Recycled Cotton Macrame Cord.
Crown Knot Keychain
Use up your scrap cord with this tiny Crown Knot keychain.
Macrame Flamingo Keychain
If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, try this adorable flamingo keychain. Our Macrame Cotton Rope Zero Waste 3 Ply - 3 mm would be the perfect cord. It comes in over 30 different colors.
Enjoy Your Macrame Keychain!
With some quality cord from GANXXET and a little imagination, you can tie all sorts of macrame keychains. Use the above ideas for inspiration and then go from there. Soon, you’ll have an array of keychains for yourself or to give to others!
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