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You know that moment when your curtains bunch up in a clumsy way and suddenly the whole room feels… unfinished? Curtain tie backs fix that in two seconds. Macrame curtain tie backs fix it and make the space look like you hired someone with a design degree.
The best part? You can make most macrame tie backs in less than an hour, even if you still Google “how to do a square knot” every time.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through 12 macrame curtain tie back ideas you can make in under an hour. You’ll see simple options, boho textures, a few with beads, and even some clever upcycling. Ready to give your windows a glow-up?
1. Classic Single Knot Rope Tie Back
If you want a quick win, start here. A classic single-knot tie back looks clean, stylish, and surprisingly intentional.
What you need:
- 1 thick cotton cord or rope (about 3–4 times the width of your curtain)
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
How you make it:
You cut your cord to size, fold it in half, and tie a large, simple overhand knot near each end. You leave enough length between the knots so the rope wraps around the curtain with a little drape. You adjust the knot placement until it sits just right.
This style works in almost any room: minimalist, coastal, farmhouse, you name it. Have you noticed how one simple, chunky knot instantly makes a space feel more curated?
2. Boho Spiral Tie Back
If you love a relaxed boho look, go for a spiral pattern. It looks intricate, yet you only repeat the same knot in the same direction.
What you need:
- 4 lengths of macrame cord
- Tape or a hook to hold the top while you knot
- Scissors
How you make it:
You fold the cords in half and secure them at the top. You tie a series of half square knots over and over, always in the same direction. The cord starts to twist into a spiral as you go. When you reach the length you want, you tie a simple knot at the end and trim the fringe.
You create a tie back that feels soft and detailed, but you finish it while your coffee stays warm. Win–win.
3. Chunky Cotton Tassel Tie Back
Want a little drama? Add a tassel. A big, fluffy tassel instantly gives the curtain a boutique-hotel vibe.
What you need:
- Thick macrame cord or rope
- Extra cord for tassels
- Scissors
- A small piece of cardboard (for wrapping tassels)
How you make it:
You create a simple rope or braided band for the main tie back. Then you wrap cord around a piece of cardboard several times, slide it off, tie the top, and cut the loops at the bottom to form a tassel. You add a “neck” by wrapping cord around the top and knotting it. Finally, you attach the tassel to one side of the tie back.
I love this style for bedrooms. It draws the eye, but the soft fiber keeps the look cozy instead of loud.
4. Wooden Bead Accent Tie Back
Wooden beads and macrame go together like tea and biscuits. When you add beads to a tie back, you create a subtle focal point without much extra work.
What you need:
- Macrame cord (medium thickness)
- Several wooden beads with large holes
- Scissors
How you make it:
You cut your cord, then thread beads onto the center strands before or during your knotting pattern. You can space them evenly down the middle or cluster them near the ends. A simple row of square knots between each bead keeps everything secure.
You match the beads to your hardware or furniture for a pulled-together look. Light wood for Scandinavian style, darker stain for a more traditional feel—easy.
5. Minimalist Ring Tie Back
If you lean minimalist, you might prefer a tie back that feels more like jewelry for your window than a full statement piece. Enter the ring accent.
What you need:
- Thin macrame cord
- One decorative ring (brass, wood, or black metal)
- Scissors
How you make it:
You attach the cords to the ring with lark’s head knots, then work a simple row of square knots or a neat braid down the length. At the other end, you finish with a knot or a small loop. To use it, you wrap the band around the curtain and slip it through the ring.
This style suits modern, industrial, or minimalist spaces. It looks intentional but not fussy—perfect when you like things clean and streamlined.
6. Twisted Jute Farmhouse Tie Back
Need something that feels rustic and relaxed, maybe for a kitchen or a cottage-style room? Jute cord gives you that natural farmhouse charm.
What you need:
- Jute rope or twine
- Scissors
- Optional: a bit of clear glue to secure ends
How you make it:
You cut two long pieces of jute, tie them together at one end, and twist each strand tightly in the same direction. Then you twist both strands together in the opposite direction to create one thick rope (a simple rope twist technique). You tie off the end and secure any fraying with glue if you like.
The texture of jute adds interest even without fancy knots. Have you noticed how one rustic detail can make the whole room feel warmer and more lived-in?
7. Color-Dipped Macrame Tie Back
If you love neutrals but still want a hint of color, try a “color-dipped” effect on the ends of your macrame tie back. It feels modern and artistic, and you control the intensity.
What you need:
- Natural cotton macrame cord
- Fabric dye in your chosen color
- Container for dye
- Gloves and paper towels
How you make it:
You create a simple tie back—braided, twisted, or knotted. Then you mix a small batch of dye according to the instructions. You dip just the ends of the cord into the dye for a few minutes, let them absorb the color, and then rinse and dry them.
Think soft blush pink for a romantic bedroom, indigo for a coastal vibe, or sage green for a calm, earthy look. You change the mood of the room with just a few centimeters of color.
8. Braided Jersey T-Shirt Tie Back
If you enjoy a good upcycling project, you can turn old t-shirts into soft, stretchy “yarn” for a very cozy tie back.
What you need:
- Old cotton t-shirt (no side seams works best)
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
How you make it:
You cut the shirt into long, even strips, then gently stretch them so the edges curl into yarn. You braid three strands together to form the band. You tie simple knots at each end to keep the braid secure.
This style feels casual and comfy, perfect for a playroom, studio, or relaxed living room. Plus, you clear closet space. That counts as productivity, right?
9. Half-Moon Wall-Hanging Style Tie Back
Love macrame wall hangings but not ready to commit to a huge piece? You can make a mini version that doubles as a tie back accent.
What you need:
- Macrame cord
- Small metal or wooden semi-circle or ring
- Scissors
- Comb or brush for fringe
How you make it:
You attach several cords to the semi-circle and tie a few rows of square knots or alternating patterns to create a compact “half-moon” design. You leave the bottom strands long, then trim and comb them into a soft fringe. You attach this mini hanging to a simple cord or band that wraps around the curtain.
You get that “boho wall art” feeling in a smaller, more flexible format. It works beautifully when you pair it with other macrame pieces in the room.
10. Leaf or Feather Macrame Tie Back
Macrame leaves or feathers look delicate and artistic, yet they only use basic knots and a bit of trimming. They make charming ends for a curtain tie back.
What you need:
- Macrame cord
- Small stick or metal ring (optional)
- Scissors
- Comb or brush
How you make it:
You cut several short pieces of cord and attach them to a central stem with lark’s head knots. You shape the cords into a leaf by trimming the sides gradually, then you comb out the fibers to create that soft, feathery look. You attach the finished leaf to one or both ends of a simple tie back cord.
You can make a single statement leaf or a cluster of two or three. Either way, the result feels whimsical and handcrafted.
11. Double Curtain Wrap with Two Colors
Sometimes one color doesn’t quite scratch the itch. When you twist two different macrame cords together, you create a playful, layered look without complex knotting.
What you need:
- Two macrame cords in different colors
- Scissors
How you make it:
You cut both cords to the same length. You hold them together, tie a knot at one end, then gently twist them around each other. You knot the other end when you reach the length you want. You can leave the ends fringed or trim them neatly.
Imagine a warm terracotta cord twisted with creamy white in a neutral room, or a muted blue with gray for a subtle coastal touch. You match or contrast with your curtains for a completely custom feel.
12. Holiday-Swappable Charm Tie Back
Do you change your decor with the seasons? You can design a neutral macrame tie back and attach small charms or decorations that you swap out throughout the year.
What you need:
- Neutral macrame tie back (simple braid or row of knots)
- Small charms or decorations (wood slices, tiny ornaments, dried orange slices, mini shells, etc.)
- Small clips, jump rings, or thin cord
How you make it:
You create a plain, versatile macrame band. Then you attach small loops or rings along one section. You clip or tie different charms to those loops: perhaps leaves in autumn, stars or snowflakes in winter, flowers in spring, shells in summer.
You keep your base tie back the same, but your windows quietly celebrate every season with you. It feels like a tiny tradition you enjoy every time you open the curtains.
Final Styling Tips
Before you dive into your first project, a few quick reminders help everything look cohesive:
- Match thickness to curtain weight. Light sheers look best with slimmer cords. Heavier curtains handle chunky rope easily.
- Repeat textures in the room. If you use jute on the curtains, sprinkle jute or woven pieces elsewhere—baskets, placemats, or a rug.
- Keep pairs consistent. You can mix designs across different windows, but each individual window looks best with matching tie backs on both sides.
Ready to grab some cord and test one of these ideas? You really can finish a macrame curtain tie back in under an hour, and once you make one, you’ll probably start eyeing every window in the house as your next little makeover.