Macrame Cord Calculator
Calculate how much cord you need for your macrame project based on dimensions, knot type, and cord thickness.
Formula: working cords = (width / cord thickness) × 2. Each cord is cut to: (height × multiplier) + fringe. A 10% buffer is included.
Macrame cord calculation basics
The 4× rule: The most common rule of thumb is to cut each cord 4 times the finished length for square knot projects. This is a starting estimate — more complex knotting like the Josephine knot or intricate patterns may need 5–6×.
Working cords vs filler cords: Not all cords consume the same amount. Working cords (the ones doing the knotting) use far more cord than filler cords (which sit in the centre and get knotted around). In a basic square knot, 2 cords work around 2 filler cords. This calculator assumes all cords are cut to the same length for simplicity.
Folding: Macrame cords are usually folded in half over a dowel, so when you calculate "number of cords" you are calculating strands. If you fold 10 cords, you have 20 working ends. This calculator gives you strand count (folded), so multiply by 2 for working ends.
Cord thickness and project density: Thicker cord (8mm+) makes larger, faster projects but requires more length per knot. Thin cord (3mm) allows finer detail. The density of knots across the width determines how many cords you need; this calculator uses a full-density estimate.
Always buy extra: Cord is inexpensive compared to labour. Buy 10–20% more than your estimate. Running out mid-project requires splicing, which is difficult to hide cleanly.