Macrame vs Crochet: What's the Difference and Which Should You Learn?
If you've been scrolling through craft inspiration online, you've probably come across both macrame and crochet — and maybe wondered what exactly the difference is. Both crafts produce beautiful textile art, both are having a major moment in the handmade world, and both are more beginner-friendly than they look. But they're quite different in technique, tools, and the kinds of things you can make.
Here's a clear breakdown to help you decide which craft — or both! — is right for you.
What is Macrame?
Macrame is the art of knotting cord or rope into decorative patterns. No hook, no needles — just your hands and a series of knots. The most common knots are the square knot and the half hitch, and from just these two you can create intricate wall hangings, plant hangers, bracelets, and more. Macrame typically uses thick cotton cord and produces a chunky, textural, boho aesthetic.
What is Crochet?
Crochet uses a hook to loop yarn into interlocking chains and stitches. Unlike knitting (which uses two needles), crochet is worked one stitch at a time, making it easier to learn and quicker to fix mistakes. Crochet is incredibly versatile — you can make everything from tiny amigurumi animals to blankets, clothing, home decor, and wall hangings.
Key Differences
Tools: Macrame needs only cord and your hands (plus a rail or dowel to hang work from). Crochet needs a hook and yarn.
Technique: Macrame is all about knotting. Crochet is about looping and pulling yarn through stitches with a hook.
Learning curve: Both are beginner-friendly. Macrame has fewer techniques to learn initially; crochet has more variety once you progress.
What you can make: Macrame excels at wall hangings, plant hangers, and jewellery. Crochet can make almost anything — toys, clothing, blankets, accessories, and home decor.
Time: Macrame wall hangings can be large-scale projects that take many hours. Crochet projects range from 30-minute bookmarks to month-long blankets.
Which Should You Learn First?
If you're drawn to boho wall art and love the look of knotted rope textures — start with macrame. If you want more versatility, love the idea of making animals, clothing, and gifts, or want a craft you can do anywhere — start with crochet.
The good news? Many makers do both — and they complement each other beautifully. Several of our most popular patterns actually combine both crafts, like our macrame owl and angel wings wall hangings.
Can You Do Both?
Absolutely — and we'd encourage it! Once you understand the rhythm of one fibre craft, picking up the other feels natural. Many of our customers start with crochet amigurumi and then branch into macrame wall hangings, or vice versa.
Explore Both at The Cozy Loop
We have patterns for both crafts in our shop. Browse our Home Decor Patterns for macrame wall hangings, wind spinners, and mixed-technique pieces, or head to Amigurumi Animals to start your crochet journey. Every pattern is a beginner-friendly PDF with full step-by-step instructions — no experience needed. 🧶