DIY Macrame Handles

I’m finding the macrame trend a bit intriguing, perhaps because I’m old enough to remember the last time macrame was a trend.  We had macrame planters hanging around my childhood home back in the 70’s.  While I’m not ready to embrace a macrame planter {yet}, I do love the idea of finding unique ways to use macrame in the home.  These DIY macrame handles are a great way to update a plain basket or box and they’re super simple to make … even if you’re not a product of the 70’s!

To add these DIY macrame handles to your own decor, find a basket or a box that you love and cord or yarn.  If you opt to use yarn, be sure it’s a thick yarn or the handle won’t have enough body.

Cut three pieces of cord in equal lengths {double or triple the final length you want} and use tape to attach the ends to your work space.

Use a half hitch pattern to create the basket handles.  The middle cord is sort of an anchor and will always stay in the middle.  Start with the cord on the left, loop it over the middle cord then under it and back over itself as diagrammed in the picture below.

Pull the loop tight against the top.

Repeat with the right cord, working in the opposite direction.  Pull it tight then repeat the pattern, alternating each side and pulling tight every time.

Continue until the piece is the length needed for a handle.

Prepare the basket or box next.  If you’re using the macrame handles on a basket, simply pull the cord through an opening in the basket.  For a box or metal tin, drill holes on the sides, spacing the holes equally from the side.  Make holes just large enough to pull the three pieces of cord through.

Pull the cords on each end through the holes …

… then tie a knot on the inside.  If using cord, use a match or lighter to melt the ends.  This will secure the knot and prevent the handles from pulling out.  Trim the excess cord.

These DIY macrame handles turn an ordinary basket or box into a handy caddy …

… and add a unique, functional touch.  Not bad for a throwback to the 70’s, huh?