How to Make a Macrame Round Bag

The wait is almost over to make a stunning Macrame Round Bag, as this digital tutorial combines your enthusiasm for fiber art and macrame to help you create a beautiful boho purse. It's an easy and simple thing for beginners and will add a touch of elegance to any outfit.

Let's get started

Materials Needed 

• Macrame cord, 4–5mm single-strand (recycled cotton or similar), natural/cream — about 100–150m total

• A metal ring or wooden ring (~3–4cm) to anchor the spiral center

• 2 metal clasps/carabiner hooks (for the strap)

• Comb or brush (to fluff/blend fibers if using single-strand cord)

• Scissors, T-pins, and a foam board or cushion to pin your work flat

Step 1: Anchor the Center

• Cut 8 to 10 cords, each about 2 to 2.5 meters long (longer cords let you work the spiral without splicing constantly).

• Fold them in two and attach them to your ring using lark's head knots – in this way you will have 16 to 20 working strands spreading out from the center.

Step 2: Build the Radial Spiral (Double Half Hitches)

This is the technique that creates the swirled rounds you see in the photo:

• Fasten your ring to the board so that the strands spread out like spokes.

• For your first 'carrier' cord, select one strand and place it diagonally over the adjacent strands.

• Secure a double half hitch on each strand to the carrier, moving around in one direction (either clockwise or counterclockwise—choose one and stick to it).

• When you finish one full round, take up a new carrier cord right beside where the previous one ended and carry on—this staggered carrier method creates the illusion of a continuous spiral rather than concentric circles.

• Make sure the tension is even, and make sure the knots are tight compared to the previous round so the item lies flat rather than becoming cupped or rippled.

Step 3: Increase as You Go

• Since the circle widens as you spiral out, add space or introduce new strands from time to time over a few rounds so the piece doesn't pucker or curl inward. Frequently check that the piece is flat against the board.

Step 4: Repeat for Two Matching Discs

• Create a second spiral disc of the same size—this will serve as the back panel, or else fold the one large spiral disc in half if you prefer a seamless bottom (refer to the reference photo to see whether there is a seam along the sides; if there isn't one, then simply fold the single disc in half)

Step 5: Join the Edges

• Fold the discs in half or join two discs.

• To secure the outer edges, use double half hitches or simple overhand knots in pairs, leaving the top open since it will form the mouth of the bag.

• When closing it, pull and tuck the loose ends into the seam.

Step 6: Make the Wrapped Strap

• Get a long piece of cord (or else several strands twisted or braided together) for your strap core.

• Take a separate cord and wrap it tightly around the strap in a spiral, making sure to cover the core entirely (this creates the thick, textured rope appearance in the photo).

• Fasten both ends and screw on a clip or loop at each end.

Step 7: Attach the Strap

Sew or attach the ends of the strap to the sides of the bag near the top opening, using the metal ring or clasp hardware for a neat finish.

Step 8: Finishing

• If you want a soft, frayed finish, comb the ends of any single-strand cords.

• Trim stray fibers evenly.

• Use steam or a light mist and press it down to ensure that the spiral sits properly.

Your round spiral macrame bag is now complete!