How to Macrame Using Four Ropes

Macrame -- unlike knitting, weaving, and sewing -- is a method of putting fabrics together using intricate knotting. It is believed to have originated with 13th-century Arabian weavers, who created the technique in order to decoratively tie off edges of rugs, scarves, shawls and other woven creations. It gained value over time as a unique style and was especially popular during the Victorian era. Creating macrame using four strands is one of the more complicated techniques, but the result is well worth the effort.

• 1

  Tie four strands of even lengths together on one end. Wrap this end around a table leg or arm or tape it to a surface. This will secure it and will keep your strands taut as you weave.

• 2

  Separate your strands so that you have two in your left hand and two in your right. If you are weaving with multicolored strands, make sure that you have one dark strand on the outside in your left hand and another on the outside in your right.

• 3

  Begin with the outside strand in your right hand. Weave it over the two inside strands, so that it is next to the outside strand in the left hand. You should be left with one string in your right hand and three in your left.

• 4

  Repeat this process with the left hand, bringing the outside strand over the two inside strands. It will now be on the inside right position.

• 5

  Take the outside strand in your right hand and pass it over, keeping it on the inside in the left hand.

• 6

  Draw the outside strand in your left hand over the two inside strands, leaving it in the inside right position. If your strings are of varied colors, you will notice that they have returned to their initial position. This means you have completed a full rotation. Begin again and continue weaving until your macrame rope is as long as you desire.