Few projects capture holiday spirit quite like a tiny macrame Christmas keychain. They’re quick to knot, lovely as stocking stuffers and gift toppers, and each one below comes with a free video tutorial so you can follow along knot by knot.
What you’ll need
- 3–4 mm cotton macrame cord in holiday shades (white/cream, red, green, gold, brown)
- 3 mm white and green cord (120 cm cuts) for the striped design
- Keychain rings, split rings, or lobster clasps
- Wooden beads in assorted sizes and colors
- Scissors, measuring tape, masking tape or a clipboard to anchor your work
- A fringe comb or brush for fluffy tassels and beards
- Optional: metallic gold cord accents, cotton twine
Save1. Twisted Christmas Tree Keychain
Kicking things off is a charming twisted tree design dotted with colorful wooden beads that give it a decorated, festive feel. The twisting technique is simple once you see it done, and it makes the tree shape come alive.
Video tutorial: Twisted Christmas Tree Keychain tutorial
Tip: Space your beads evenly as you go — they look best when they read as little ornaments rather than clustered together.
Save2. Christmas Star Keychain
A bright star-shaped keychain that works up quickly, which makes it ideal if you want to knot a whole batch for friends and family. Simple construction, eye-catching result.
Video tutorial: Christmas Star Keychain tutorial
Tip: Keep your tension even on every arm of the star so it stays symmetrical.
Save3. Striped Christmas Keychain
This one uses just two cord colors — white 3 mm cord and a 120 cm length of green — knotted into neat festive stripes. Minimal supplies, maximum Christmas charm.
Video tutorial: Striped Christmas Keychain tutorial
Tip: Measure and cut both colors to the same length before you start so the stripes stay even.
Save4. Beaded Christmas Keychain
A cute beaded keychain finished at roughly 6.5 × 12.5 cm — a perfect pocket-sized ornament. The beads break up the knotting and add a lovely tactile detail.
Video tutorial: Beaded Christmas Keychain tutorial
Tip: Thread your beads onto the cord before you anchor it, so you don’t have to fight to get them on mid-project.
Save5. Colorful Macrame Keychain
If you’re brand new to macrame, start here. This is an easy, quick make in cheerful rainbow tones — a lovely way to add bright color to your keyring or bag.
Video tutorial: Colorful Macrame Keychain tutorial
Tip: Choose three or four colors that pop against each other, like red, yellow, and turquoise.
Save6. Envelope Christmas Keychain
Who knew a tiny macrame envelope could be this sweet? Knotted in cotton twine, it opens like a little secret messenger — tuck in a note and it doubles as a miniature card.
Video tutorial: Envelope Christmas Keychain tutorial
Tip: Knot the envelope body a little loosely so you can slip a small note inside.
Save7. Flower Keychain
A simple flower design in a cheerful color that brings festive flair to your everyday carry. Quick to make and easy to customize in any shade you like.
Video tutorial: Christmas Flower Keychain tutorial
Tip: Fluff and trim the petals with a comb for a fuller, more flower-like finish.
Save8. Santa Dog Keychain
An adorable little Santa-faced companion for your keys — a simple design that makes a perfect handmade gift for the dog lovers and Christmas fans in your life.
Video tutorial: Santa Dog Keychain tutorial
Tip: Brush out the beard fringe generously — that’s what gives the little Santa face its character.
Save9. Angel Keychain
Carry a little guardian angel wherever you go. This delicate design is easy enough for newbies and makes a thoughtful holiday gift or tree decoration.
Video tutorial: Angel Keychain tutorial
Tip: A touch of gold metallic cord in the wings makes the angel look extra special.
Save10. Christmas Gift Wrap Keychain
Cords transformed into a tiny wrapped gift — attach it to a bag or key ring, or use it as a keepsake ornament on the tree. A sweet finishing touch to the collection.
Video tutorial: Christmas Gift Wrap Keychain tutorial
Tip: Keep the “ribbon” wraps tight and evenly spaced so the gift reads clearly at a glance.
Caring for your macrame keychains
- Spot-clean with a damp cloth and mild soap; avoid soaking the beads and metal rings.
- Let air-dry fully before using, so the cord keeps its shape.
- Store flat or hanging to keep tassels and fringe from getting crushed.
- A quick comb-through now and then keeps the fringe looking fresh.
Ten keychains, ten tutorials — everything you need for a handmade holiday. Pick your favorite design, grab your cord, and start knotting. Happy crafting!
