Beaded Macrame Keychain: Project Instructions

Looking for a quick and satisfying craft? This beaded macrame keychain project is perfect for beginners and a great way to learn basic macrame knots. Using just 4 cords, a keyring, and a bead or two, you can create a stylish and practical accessory that's perfect for keys, backpacks, or gifts.

You'll practice the lark’s head knot, square knot, and gathering knot — all fundamental macrame techniques. Plus, it's a fun way to add beads into your macrame work!

MATERIALS REQUIRED

• 4 strands of 1.5mm macrame cord (about 50cm each)
• 1 38mm key chain swivel clasp set
• 1 x 20mm large hole barrel glass beads bead (or more if you like!)

TOOLS REQUIRED

• scissors
• tape or clipboard
• big eye beading needle
• e6000 glue

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Attach to the Keyring

• Fold each cord in half.
• Attach all 4 cords to the keyring using a lark’s head knot (fold the cord, slip the loop through the ring, then pull the ends through the loop and tighten).
• You will now have 8 working strands.

2. Set Up

• Secure your keyring to a clipboard or tape it down so it stays in place while you work.

3. Start Knotting (Square Knots)

• Split the 8 strands into two groups of four (left and right).
• Start with the four cords on the left:
  • Tie a square knot: Take the far left cord over the two middle cords.
  • Take the far right cord of that group over the first cord, around the back of the two middle cords, and up through the loop. Pull snug to the top.
  • Now reverse: Take the right cord over the two middle cords, then the left cord over, around the back, and up through the loop. Pull snug.
• Repeat the same process with the four cords on the right.
• Then, using the four middle cords, tie one full square knot (right over center, then left over center).
• Continue this sequence until you have about 1cm of knotting.

4. Add Beads

• Slide a bead onto the four middle cords.
• Tie a square knot directly underneath the bead to hold it in place.

5. Continue the Pattern

• Keep tying square knots until your keychain is the desired length.
• In this project, we added just one bead, but feel free to add more wherever you like!

6. Finish

• Once you’re happy with the length, finish with a gathering knot:
  • Take one outside cord and wrap it firmly around all the other cords 4–5 times to form a neat band.
  • Bring the wrapping cord up to the top of the band and thread it down through the center to lock it in place.
  • Tip: Pulling the cord through the center can be fiddly — using a big eye beading needle can make it much easier!
  • Add a dab of glue inside the center of the knot for extra security.
• Trim the cord ends neatly, leaving about 3cm below the gathering knot.

Note:

Traditionally, macrame artists often start square knots with the left cord over the center cords first, then the right. However, many people also start right over left, and that’s perfectly fine too! The key is to alternate sides with each half knot. Choose whichever starting method feels most comfortable for you — both will create beautiful results!

Wrap-Up

Congratulations — you've made your very own custom beaded macrame keychain!

This easy macrame keychain tutorial is a perfect beginner macrame project, teaching you essential knots like the lark’s head, square knot, and gathering knot.

This quick DIY beaded keychain is not only fun to make, it’s also a great handmade gift idea or a stylish way to personalize your keys or bags.

Now that you’ve learned how to combine macrame with beads, why not experiment further? Try adding more beads, mixing cord colours, or using different types of feature beads to create unique designs.

Once you’re confident, you can even use these same techniques to make larger pieces like wall hangings or plant hangers!

© www.eurekabeads.com.au These free beading instructions may be used for personal use only. Visit www.eurekabeads.com.au for access to hundreds of free beading tutorials, creative inspiration, and expert tips. We are an Australia-based supplier, offering thousands of high-quality beads and jewellery-making products, with fast shipping Australia-wide. Explore our wide selection of beading materials, including glass beads, gemstone beads, findings, and stringing supplies to bring your projects to life! [EX10681]