How to Add More Macrame Cord {When You Run Out Mid-Project}
I remember the first time I ran out of macrame cord in the middle of a project.
It was super frustrating and I ended up untying the whole thing and starting over! Little did I know you can add more macrame cord when you run out and it’s not even hard.
Want to remember this? Post this How to Add Macrame Cord When You Run Out tutorial to your favorite DIY Pinterest board!

(This post may contain affiliate links. If you click one and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the disclaimer here. Thank you for your support!)
If you’re new to macrame, running out of cord in the middle of a project is a major cause of stress. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Once you learn these easy techniques to add more cord, you can rest easy knowing that even if you do run out, you can totally fix it.
Once you get more confident in your cord estimating abilities, you won’t have to do this as often but it’s always good to know what to do in macrame cord emergencies.
Before we get started, be sure to come check out our awesome macrame community on Facebook!
Join the Macrame for Beginners and Beyond Facebook Group!
If you’re new to macrame or if you’ve been knotting for a while, connecting with other macrame lovers is always a great idea!
Come check out our Facebook group, Macrame for Beginners and Beyond. It’s a friendly community where you can ask questions, get inspiration, and share your awesome work with other macrame lovers! Come join the conversation today!
Related Macrame Posts
- Macrame for Beginners (the Ultimate Guide!)
- Basic Macrame Knots for Beginners
- The Best Macrame Cord and Supplies (& Where to Find Them!)
- How to Make a Macrame Plant Hanger (Everything You Need to Know)
Get your copy of 60 Macrame Knots & Knot Patterns eBook today!
Click here to find out more about this helpful macrame knot book that features step by step photo tutorials for 60 different macrame knots and knot patterns!
It’s a perfect resource to help you take your macrame creations to the next level.
How to Add Macrame Cord When You Run Out Mid Project
Here are some simple steps you can take when you run out of macrame cord in the middle of your project:
When Your Working Cords Get Too Short During a Square Knot Sennit
It’s really common for your working cords to get too short during a long square knot sennit. Luckily, we can fix that! Follow these steps to add more length to your working cords.
(Be sure to check out the video above if this is confusing!)










When the Filler Cords Get Too Short During a Square Knot Sennit
Sometimes the filler cords will end up being too short for your square knot sennits. It’s even easier to add cord when that happens!






When Cords Get Too Short During Alternating Square Knots
When you’re doing alternating square knots, sometimes you’ll get a cord or two that are just too short.
It’s easiest to add more cord when they’re filler cords, so if you can stop on a row when that’s the case it’ll make your life easier.
Also, I find it easier to replace two cords next to each other, so even if one is still longer I’d just replace the pair anyway as shown below.




When a Working Cord Gets Too Short During Double Half Hitch Knots
It’s really easy to replace a too short working cord when you’re doing double half hitch knots!
In the example below I tied the new cord onto the dowel to hold it while I tied the first knot with it, but you don’t have to do that. It just makes it easier and less fumbly for the first knot.






Running out of macrame cord is a major cause of stress for newbie’s and experienced crafters alike. Knowing how to add more when you run out can help save your project from being ruined!
If all this talk about adding cords has got you scrambling to come up with some macrame projects to make, check out these posts with lots of free patterns!
More Macrame Posts
- 12 Free Macrame Wall Hanging Patterns & Tutorials
- 6 Free Macrame Plant Hanger Patterns & Tutorials
- How to Make a DIY Macrame Lamp Shade
- How to Make a DIY Macrame Wristlet Keychain
- How to Wrap a Stone or Crystal in Macrame Netting
Thankyou once again Chrystal,I don’t know how many times i get caught,this will help me finish incomplete works due to these mistakes i made.What was the cord you used in the alternating square knot demo? Take care.
Kind regards Lynette.
This is so handy!! The fear of running out of cord kept me from wanting to try freehand planter design. Now I have the solution, and I’m off to the races! Thanks!!
Do you have any tutorials for adding new cord when using a josephine knot?
Thank you!
I don’t yet but I’ll add that to my to-do list!
The videos are very easy to follow.
Thanks Crystal for taking the time to make these instructional videos, I have found them very helpful.
Cris
Hello🌷Crystal
Thank you for sharing your skills with adding extra macrame cord. Your demonstration is very helpful & simple to follow. Well presented.I appreciate your video.
SOFT FABRIC MATERIAL
I am interested in using the soft macrame cords.
Can you please advise where to purchase this material.
Thanks Crystal for your time & teaching skills.
Kind regards🌼
Helen