Hemp for macrame is usually purchased as cord from a craft store or other vendor. It is possible to make cord at home out of hemp for macrame, but the cord is usually purchased given how inexpensive it is. This cord is available in many different colors and can be used to make nearly any macrame project, just like other yarns. The main consideration when using hemp for macrame is whether the finished project will be comfortable to wear, given that hemp is sometimes rough. For items that will only be looked at, hemp for macrame is as easy to use as other yarns.
Many people use hemp for macrame bracelets, belts, and necklaces. One of the most popular macrame knots for these projects is the square knot, which is considered relatively easy to learn. This knot used in isolation produces flat bands that are particularly desirable for bracelets and chokers. More complex knots can be used to produce waving, woven, or even spiral designs.
While designs that use only one color of cord can be interesting, another way to change the look of a piece is to use dyed hemp cord. This material is usually purchased colored, not dyed at home. It is important to consider how the colors will look in the finished project when choosing cord. In a single color design, it does not matter which strings are used for which part of the project. In a design with multiple colors, the placement of the strings changes the look of the final design.
Some people combine hemp cord with beads to produce macrame items. Beads must have relatively large holes in order to be used for this kind of macrame, because hemp cord is usually fairly thick. A good way to select beads for hemp macrame projects is to take a sample of the hemp cord to the bead store to ensure a good fit.
Another popular use of hemp for macrame is for creating nets that can be used for flower pots, bags, or even hammocks. These nets can be quite strong when made from hemp fibers, but must be constructed to fit the finished project. A hammock net, for instance, will likely be flat, while a net for a flower pot will need to wrap around the pot. There are patterns available for all types of macrame netting.
Using hemp for macrame is merely an extension of other macrame projects. Over time, working with this particular type of fiber will become easier. It may be helpful to look at macrame books that specifically deal with hemp projects, but one will often develop a feel for this material easily with practice.
