I love a tiny balcony — the way a single pot of herbs or a trailing fern can transform a narrow strip of outdoor space into a calm, green retreat. When floor space is precious, vertical planting becomes essential, and a macramé plant hanger is one of the simplest, most charming ways to lift your plants into view. In this post I’ll show you how to build a macramé plant hanger for tiny balconies using tools you probably already own. No fancy hardware, no expensive materials — just practical, sustainable choices that suit small outdoor spaces.
Why a macramé hanger for a tiny balcony?
On balconies under 1.5 metres wide, pots on the floor can feel intrusive. Hanging planters save space, add a layered look, and make watering easier if you use a drip tray or a self-watering pot. Macramé adds soft texture that complements plants and helps create that cozy, lived-in feeling I’m always aiming for. Plus, macramé is forgiving: imperfect knots look homely rather than wrong — which is perfect for beginner makers.
What you’ll need (most are likely already at home)
- Cord: 3–5mm cotton cord or recycled cotton rope (about 4–6 metres). I often use 4mm braided macramé cord from Etsy or a local haberdashery; you can also repurpose old t-shirt yarn or thicker cotton string.
- Ring or loop: a metal or wooden ring for the top (optional). You can also use an old curtain ring, a large keyring, or make a loop with cord.
- Scissors: sharp pair for clean ends.
- Tape measure or ruler: to get consistent cord lengths.
- Clothespin or peg: to hold the cord while you knot (optional).
- Potted plant: choose a pot that’s not too heavy — terra cotta up to 20cm diameter or a lightweight plastic/ceramic pot.
- Hook to hang the planter: a ceiling hook, balcony beam, S-hook, or a railing bracket. Many balconies have places to hang from; a simple S-hook (I like stainless steel for outdoors) works wonders.
Materials table — quick reference
| Item | Suggested amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton cord (3–5mm) | 4–6 m | 4 x 1.2–1.5 m pieces if making a classic hanger |
| Top ring or loop | 1 | Optional — curtain ring, keyring, or cord loop |
| Hook (S-hook or ceiling hook) | 1 | Make sure weight-rated for pot and plant |
| Scissors | 1 | Sharp, for neat ends |
Simple macramé hanger — the method I use most
This is a pared-back version of the classic four-strand hanger, adapted for small balconies and lightweight pots. I’ll explain how to create it using a ring or just a loop of cord.
Step 1 — Cut your cords
Measure and cut four lengths of cord, each about 1.2–1.5 metres. If you’re unsure, err on the longer side — you can trim later. For very small balconies and shorter drop, 1m per cord can be enough.
Step 2 — Attach to the ring (or make a loop)
Fold each cord in half and use a lark’s head knot to attach to the top ring. If you don’t have a ring, gather the folded ends together and tie a strong overhand knot to make a top loop. This creates 8 working strands hanging down.
Step 3 — Create the upper gathering
About 10–15cm below the ring, tie a simple overhand gathering knot that wraps all the cords together — this helps keep the hanger tidy and sets the top height. I often wrap a short length of contrasting cotton around and secure with a square knot for decoration.
Step 4 — Make the basket
Separate the cords into four groups of two strands. Working with each pair, tie a few square knots about 10–15cm below the gathering knot — these will form the top edge of the basket. Then, move down another 8–12cm and tie a knot using one strand from this pair and one strand from the adjacent pair. Repeat all the way around so knots interlock and form a cradle for the pot. The spacing depends on your pot’s height — taller pots need knots spaced further apart; for squat pots, bring the knots closer together.
Step 5 — Finish the base
When you’ve got three or four rows of interlocked knots and can see a comfortable cradle for the pot, bring all strands together beneath the pot and tie a large gathering knot about 10–15cm below where the pot will sit. Trim the ends to your desired length — I like leaving a little fringe for a boho finish. You can also wrap the base knot with thin cord to tidy it.
Adaptations for tiny balconies
- Shorter drop: Reduce cord lengths to 1–1.2 m and place the upper gathering knot only 5–8cm below the ring so the pot sits closer to the ceiling or overhang.
- Multiple tiers: Make two or three small hangers with shorter cords and hang them at staggered heights from a single strong beam or a long balcony hook to create a green curtain without taking up floor space.
- Use lighter pots: Prefer plastic or thin ceramic to heavy terracotta. I sometimes double-pot: a smaller plant pot into a shallow plastic saucer inside the macramé to reduce weight.
- Rail-friendly hang: If you can’t use an overhead hook, attach an S-hook to the balcony railing and loop the macramé over it. For windy balconies, add a small carabiner or a knot that locks over the railing so the hanger can’t blow off.
Plant selection and care for balcony hangers
Choose plants suited to your balcony’s light levels. For a south-facing tiny balcony I love trailing geraniums, pelargoniums, or rosemary — they handle sun and heat. For shadier spots, ferns (Boston fern), scented pelargoniums, or pothos (Epipremnum aureum) work well. Herbs like thyme and oregano are compact and smell lovely.
Tip: use a pot with a saucer or line the macramé cradle with a small dish to catch excess water. If you use a terracotta pot, water more sparingly because it dries faster. I often add a layer of gravel in the bottom of the pot for drainage and to reduce the risk of soil spilling onto the balcony floor.
Troubleshooting and longevity
- Knot slippage: If knots slip, dampen the cord slightly and tighten; natural cotton firms up when wet. For extra security, add a dab of eco-friendly glue (PVA) hidden inside the knot.
- Weathering: Cotton will mildew if constantly wet; rotate hangers occasionally and bring them indoors during prolonged rain. Consider using a weatherproof synthetic rope (recycled polyester) if your balcony is exposed.
- Sagging: If the cradle sags over time, re-tighten individual knots or add an extra row of knots beneath the pot to lift it up.
- Weight limit: Always check your hook and balcony fixtures. A small hanger with a 15–20cm pot typically weighs under 4–5kg when watered; use appropriately rated hooks.
Styling ideas
Mix textures: pair a knitted macramé hanger with a glazed ceramic pot for contrast. Group three hangers at staggered heights for an intimate green wall effect. For evening ambience, weave a short string of battery-operated fairy lights through the top gathering knot (use weatherproof lights rated for outdoor use).
Making a macramé plant hanger is a small, satisfying project that maximises vertical space and brings personality to even the tiniest balcony. I hope this guide gives you the confidence to try one — it’s a lovely way to combine a simple craft with sustainable living, and to create a tiny, rooted sanctuary right outside your door.
