Macramé cord changes the character of a piece before the first knot is tied. The right choice depends on the pattern, the scale and the way the finished work will be used.
Start with the material
Single-twist cotton is soft and easy to fringe, while braided cord holds its shape and gives a cleaner edge. Recycled cotton can have a pleasantly uneven surface, but inspect the fibres for weak spots before starting a large project.
A useful way to live with it
For a calm, tactile finish, match the cord size to the room rather than choosing the thickest option. A simple sample square will reveal how much the cord opens, knots and brushes out.
Small checks make a difference
Take measurements, leave room for maintenance and choose pieces that can be repaired. Handmade decor rewards attention because its texture and character become more interesting with care.