Ever wondered..
How do i change my cord thicknesses?
You're not alone!
One of the most common questions i am asked from macrame makers around the world is how to successfully change your cord thicknesses when you decide to use a different size cord to that which is stated. For example, you created a piece using 5mm string in 4m lengths… and you are now wanting to create the same piece in 3mm string.. but how many metres of 3mm string do you use?
I know!! I bet this has stumped in your maker life too!! I can hear you rejoicing! This seems to be a tricky one for makers whether they are beginners right through to the advanced.
Whilst there is no set rule, there is a theory that has been helpful both in DIY blogs and modern maker groups. This is sure to give you a great start.
A grand reminder, this is a guide and it is always best to cut your cords longer rather than shorter. You can always use leftover cords for feathers, tassels, fringing and small decorations, but it is much harder to seamlessly (and much more annoying!) to add length to cords if you undercut.
**I always add on 10% to my chosen cord length so when l choose to add in a few extra details.. i know I’m covered for this.
|
|
Pattern Says This MM Cord |
||||||||||
|
You |
|
1mm |
2mm |
3mm |
4mm |
5mm |
6mm |
7mm |
8mm |
9mm |
10mm |
|
Have |
1mm |
- |
-50% |
-66% |
-75% |
-80% |
-83% |
-90% |
84% |
-80% |
-81% |
|
This |
2mm |
x2 |
- |
-33% |
-50% |
-60% |
-66% |
-75% |
-72% |
-70% |
-72% |
|
MM |
3mm |
x3 |
x1.5 |
- |
-25% |
-40% |
-50% |
-60% |
-60% |
-60% |
-63% |
|
Cord |
4mm |
x4 |
x2 |
up 33% |
- |
-20% |
-33% |
-45% |
-48% |
-50% |
-54% |
|
|
5mm |
x5 |
x2.5 |
up 66% |
up 25% |
- |
-17% |
-30% |
-36% |
-40% |
-45% |
|
|
6mm |
x6 |
x3 |
x2 |
x1.5 |
up 20% |
- |
-15% |
-24% |
-30% |
-36% |
|
|
7mm |
X7 |
x3.5 |
x2.5 |
x1.8 |
up 40% |
up 17% |
- |
-12% |
-20% |
-27% |
|
|
8mm |
X8 |
x4 |
x2.7 |
x2.2 |
up 60% |
up 33% |
up 15% |
- |
-10% |
-18% |
|
|
9mm |
X9 |
x4.5 |
x2.9 |
x2.5 |
up 80% |
up 50% |
up 30% |
up 12% |
- |
-9% |
|
|
10mm |
X10 |
x5 |
x3 |
x3.8 |
x2 |
up 66% |
up 45% |
up 24% |
up 10% |
- |
In practice..
If the pattern says use 5mm cord and you have 3mm cord you will need to reduce by 40%. Be mindful that I always recommend over cutting a little just to be safe. Your piece will also become smaller when suing smaller cord, and larger when using larger cord.
Whilst each cord is unique, below i’ve included photos showing five different thicknesses ranging from 2mm - 3.5mm - 5.5mm - 7.5mm - 9mm. Each cord being 1meter in length. You will notice that even creating the simple, single larks head knot to attach to the dowel uses a lot more cord as the cord thickness increases. As i begun to knot, the 9mm string only allowing me to create x4 rows of square knots before running out of cord, where as the 2mm allowed for x16 rows.
Size does matter!
I love to create bold statement pieces so getting this right is important.
Hope this helps!
Better Together,
Brydie Mary
Discover everything you need to get started with macramé in this comprehensive beginner’s guide! From selecting the perfect cord and scissors to finding the right tools like dowels and fringe brushes, we’ve got you covered.
