Page 119 - Lidya Chen "Complete Book of Chinese Knotting"

07 Creative Designs (115-129) 3/23/07 9:39 PM Page 116
Sketch of a design.
Knotted design using a cord of the desired
thickness in the required length.
116
CONCEIVING A DESIGN
When you have a sound knowledge of the basic knotting techniques and such funda-
mentals as appropriate cord materials, choice of color, etc., and are ready to move on
to more complex formations, it is advisable to start by copying other people’s designs
rather than trying to create your own. In this way, you can profit from any mistakes
you make in the selection of cords or the amount of space you leave, say, for knots in
an inner circle. It takes practice to get these things right. Moreover, when imitating
other people’s work, you can always make some modifications or add in knots of your
own, such as side knots. You can then gradually move away from copying to creating
your own designs. Here are some handy tips:
1. Making a sketch: It is important to start by making a sketch of the design you plan
to do so that all the cords and knots will blend together harmoniously to produce a
graceful and elegant work of art. Not only will a sketch make it easier for you to decide
on the size of each of the knots and the density of the weave, but also to estimate the
total cord length required. Ideas for subject matter can be derived from illustrations
in books or on greeting cards, etc. but also from motifs found on Chinese ceramics,
textiles, embroidery, carvings and paintings/scrolls.
2. Choosing the correct cord: Basically, thick cord is more suitable for fairly simple
knots to achieve a sharp and forceful visual image. Thinner cords are more suitable
for smaller, more intricate knots as they highlight the finer details. When a knot is
used to embellish an ornament, it is important to choose cord that matches the size
and grain of the ornament. For most designs, use cords of intermediate thickness.
3. Estimating the required cord length: The amount of cord needed for a design
depends largely on the thickness of the cord. The thicker the cord, the greater the
length required. To determine the length of cord needed for a particular knot forma-
tion, it is necessary to calculate the length required for each individual knot, then to
add these up to get the total length. Alternatively, you can estimate the total length by
doing a trial run by placing the cord on the sketch. The longer you work at knot
formations, the more accurate your estimates will become.
4. Estimating space in the center: You also have to estimate the amount of space you
need to leave for knots in an inner circle. Also the required length of cords for knots
A balanced formation of closed and open spaces tied with an appropriate sized cord..
The Complete Book Of Chinese Knotting
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