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10

Decorative Knotting

THOUGH THE WORD DECORATIVE SOMETIMES implies that little
or no function is served, the craft of decorative knot tying gener-
ally combines both form and function. This chapter is a brief
survey of decorative knots and their applications.

Tying Decorative Knots

You can do decorative knotting with both single and multiple
strands. When using a single rope or cord, a set of wraps and
tucks are made with just one end until you’re finished. The
Monkey’s Fist (described in Chapter 4) is one example of this kind
of knot. Multiple-strand knots often involve less for the knot tyer to
remember than with single-strand knots. These decorative knots
generally involve interweaving a set of cords in a repeating pattern
to build up to the required size. The Matthew Walker Knot (also
described in Chapter 4) is a favored decorative knot, sometimes
tied in four or more strands.
There are a number of things that can aid your pursuit of the
craft of decorative knot tying. A good general knowledge of knots
is very useful. Many decorative knots are combinations of simple
knots. The Constrictor Knot is commonly employed to control a
group of strands, making them easier to hold in place. Pointed
tools can help you pass cord ends through small openings and

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