Looking for a fun and practical way to display your favorite greenery? Learning how to make a plant hanger is a perfect weekend project. It’s a simple DIY craft that adds a personal touch to your home and gets your plants into the light.
You don’t need to be an expert crafter to succeed. With a few basic supplies and some easy-to-follow knots, you can create a beautiful, functional piece. It’s also a great way to use up leftover yarn or cord from other projects. Let’s get your plants hanging in style.
How to Make a Plant Hanger
This classic design uses macramé knots to create a sturdy, adjustable sling for your pot. It works for a wide range of plant sizes and looks lovely in any room.
What You’ll Need to Gather
First, let’s collect our materials. You probably have some of this at home already. The great thing about this project is it’s flexibility—you can customize it based on what you have.
* Cord: This is the main ingredient. Cotton macramé cord (3mm or 4mm thickness is ideal) is soft and easy to knot. You can also use jute for a rustic look, or nylon cord for strength outdoors. Avoid very slippery cords.
* Scissors: A sharp pair for clean cuts.
* Measuring Tape: A ruler or even a yardstick will work in a pinch.
* A Ring or Stick: For the top anchor. A wooden, metal, or plastic ring (about 2 inches in diameter) is common. A found stick or driftwood piece makes a lovely natural alternative.
* Your Plant Pot: Have the pot you plan to hang ready. This helps with measuring.
* Optional: A comb or brush for fringing ends, and tape to prevent cord ends from fraying while you work.
Calculating Your Cord Lengths
This is the most important step to get right. If your cords are to short, you’ll run out before finishing. A good rule is to cut cords eight times your desired finished hanger length. For a hanger about 2 feet long from ring to bottom, you’ll need cords roughly 16 feet long each.
For our standard project, we’ll use four long cords. Here’s a simple formula:
1. Decide your final hanger length (e.g., 24 inches).
2. Multiply that by 8 (24 x 8 = 192 inches).
3. Convert to feet (192 inches / 12 = 16 feet).
4. Cut 4 cords to 16 feet each.
Pro tip: It’s always better to have a little extra cord you can trim off later than to come up short. If your using a thicker cord or a larger pot, add an extra foot or two to each strand.
Step-by-Step Knotting Instructions
Now for the fun part—tying the knots. Don’t worry if your first few attempts look loose; you can always tighten them up as you go.
Step 1: Attach Cords to the Ring
Fold all four cords in half. Push the folded loop up through the center of your ring. Pull the loose ends down through the loop and tighten. You should now have 8 strands hanging from the ring. Ensure the ends are even.
Step 2: Create the First Knot Section
About 4-6 inches down from the ring, separate your 8 strands into 4 groups of 2. Each group will form one of the hanger’s “arms.” Take the first group (two strands on the left). This is where we make the square knot.
* Take the left strand and lay it over the center of the two (like a number 4).
* Take the right strand and lay it over the tail of the left strand.
* Then, pull the right strand under the center and up through the loop of the “4” on the left.
* Pull both ends tight. That’s the first half of a square knot.
* Now, repeat the mirror image: start with the right strand over the center, left over its tail, under, and up through. Pull tight. You’ve completed one full square knot.
Repeat this square knot with the remaining three groups of strands. You should now have four knotted sections.
Step 3: Form the Basket for the Pot
This next part creates the cradle that holds your pot. You will combine strands from adjacent groups to make new knots further down.
* Take the two outer strands from the first group and the two outer strands from the second group. You now have a new group of four strands.
* Tie a square knot with this new group, about 3-4 inches below your first set of knots. This distance depends on your pot’s size; a wider pot needs more space.
* Repeat this process all the way around: combine strands from groups 2 and 3, tie a knot. Combine strands from groups 3 and 4, tie a knot. Finally, combine the last strand from group 4 with the first strand from group 1 and tie a final knot. You should now have a diamond pattern of four knots forming a level.
Step 4: Final Gathering and Finishing
Place your pot into the cradle to test the fit. The pot’s rim should rest securely on the level of knots you just made. Below the pot, gather all 8 strands together. Tie one last, strong overhand knot or a series of square knots to secure everything. This knot will sit directly underneath the pot, keeping it from falling through.
Trim the ends evenly. You can leave them straight, brush them out for a tassel look, or add beads before the final knot for decoration.
Choosing the Right Spot to Hang Your Plant
Your beautiful new hanger needs the right home. Consider both light and practicality.
Most indoor plants have specific light needs. A hanger near a bright, east-facing window is ideal for many tropical plants. For succulents, a south-facing spot is better. Always check your plant’s requirements.
Make sure you use a secure hook. Drill into a ceiling joist or use a heavy-duty adhesive hook rated for more weight than you think you’ll need. Remember, the weight is the pot, soil, plant, and water combined. Safety first!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even simple projects can have hiccups. Here’s how to fix common problems.
* Knots Are Too Loose: This is normal at first. After you tie each knot, pull each individual strand firmly to tighten it up. Work your way down the hanger tightening as you go before moving to the next step.
* Hanger is Uneven: After you finish, hold it up by the ring. Gently tug on the cords at the bottom to adjust and level the pot cradle. The knots have a little bit of slide to them for final adjustments.
* Cord is Fraying: Wrap a small piece of tape around the area where you plan to cut before you snip. This keeps it neat. You can also add a dab of clear glue to the ends after cutting.
Creative Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic design, you can get creative. Experiment with different materials and styles.
Try using colorful yarns braided together for a chunky look. Incorporate beads, shells, or painted wooden pieces onto the cords before you knot them. For a minimalist look, use a single, very thick cord and make large, spaced-out knots.
You can also alter the structure. Instead of a ring at the top, use a second piece of dowel to create a horizontal bar for multiple plants. The possibilities are nearly endless, which is what makes this craft so enjoyable.
FAQ: Your Plant Hanger Questions Answered
What is the easiest way to make a plant holder?
The simplest method is the basic macramé sling with square knots, as described above. Using a pre-cut kit can also simplify things.
How do you make a simple homemade plant hanger?
You need cord, a ring, scissors, and a pot. Follow the square knot pattern to create a cradle. It’s a very accessible DIY project.
What can I use instead of macramé cord?
You can use jute twine, nylon paracord, leather strips, or even thick, durable yarn. Just ensure it’s strong enough to hold your plant’s weight.
How much cord do I need for one plant hanger?
A general rule is to need about 8 times your desired finished length per cord. For a 2-foot hanger with 4 cords, plan for about 64 total feet of cord (4 cords x 16 feet each).
How do you make a plant hanger for beginners?
Stick to the basic square knot. Practice the knot a few times with spare string before starting. Take your time measuring the cords—that’s the step most beginners rush.
Creating your own plant hanger is a rewarding project. It gives you a custom home for your plants and the satisfaction of making something by hand. With a little practice, you’ll be able to whip up a hanger for any pot in your collection. So grab some cord and give it a try—your green friends will thank you for their new, stylish home.