Macrame Clothing Patterns PDF: Tops, Skirts, Hats

Knotted garments have a lightness no fabric can quite match, which is why macramé tops, skirts and cover-ups keep returning every summer. Macramé Clothes is the largest guide in The Macramé Bible at 259 pages, and it is dedicated entirely to things you can wear.

Twelve macrame clothing patterns

The book is organized as a single clothes chapter that moves from fitted pieces to layers and accessories:

Macramé crop top worked in 3 mm cotton cord, with the front and back knotted separately and then joined
Macramé skirt and beach trousers for warm-weather dressing
Shoulder piece, a statement layer to wear over a simple top or dress
Boho style dress and summer top
Sarong for the beach or pool
Bucket hat and beanie hat
Scarf, shawl and fingerless gloves

How the garment patterns work

Each pattern starts with a materials list giving cord thickness, the number of cords and their lengths, plus tools such as a measuring tape and tapestry needle. The crop top, for instance, specifies 36 cords of 103 inches alongside shorter cords for the band and ties. Numbered instructions and photos then take you through each stage, from the first square knots to weaving two panels together.

Garments rely on consistent rows of square knots and alternating square knots, so this is a book to reach for once those knots are second nature. Many makers start with the scarf or fingerless gloves, which are forgiving on fit, then move to the crop top or sarong.

Tips for sizing

Measure yourself before cutting cord, and knot a small test swatch to see how your tension compares with the pattern. Adding or removing pairs of cords changes width, while extra rows change length. Because the book is a PDF, you can keep it on a tablet next to your mirror for try-on checks, or print a pattern and note your adjustments in the margin.

Frequently asked questions

Are these patterns suitable for beginners?

They are best tackled after you are comfortable with square knots and alternating square knots, since garments need many even rows. A motivated beginner could start with the scarf, shawl or fingerless gloves, which are more forgiving on fit, before moving on to the crop top, skirt or dress.

What cord is used for the clothing?

The patterns use soft cotton macramé cord, such as the 3 mm cotton cord listed for the crop top. Soft, single-strand or braided cotton is comfortable against the skin. Each pattern lists the cord it uses, so check the materials list before buying.

Can I adjust the garments to my size?

Yes, with some planning. Take your measurements, knot a small swatch to check your tension, then add or remove cords in pairs to change width and add rows to change length. Remember that extra cords also need extra length, so cut generously.