How to tighten knots evenly so that the macramé is not “crooked”?

Macramé is a beautiful craft that offers endless possibilities for creating decorations and accessories. But even the most interesting pattern can lose its charm if the knots are tightened unevenly. That’s why today we’ll share some tips on how to avoid crooked lines and achieve a professional result.

1. Check the cord tension
The first step to even macramé is controlling the tension of the cord. It shouldn’t be too loose or too tight. If the cord is too loose, the knots will “spread out” and the whole piece will look messy. If it’s pulled too tightly, the knots may wrinkle.

2. Work evenly
Try to tighten each knot with the same strength. A good method is to compare the new knot with the previous one — if it looks tighter or looser, adjust it gently. Don’t rush: keeping a steady pace helps maintain an even pattern.

3. Use reference points
In many designs, it’s useful to work with guiding lines such as a wooden dowel, stick, or frame. Knowing exactly where the knot should be makes it easier to keep straight lines and consistent spacing.

4. Check your work as you go
After every few knots, take a step back and look at your macramé from a slight distance. From afar, it’s often easier to notice if one part is uneven or crooked — and you can fix it quickly before the problem grows.

5. Practice patience
Even knots come with time. Don’t get discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect. Practicing on simple patterns will help you learn how tightly to pull each knot, and over time you’ll be able to create more and more beautiful projects.