Page 143 - Peter Randall "The Craft of the Knot.."

Chapter 11

DECORATIVE KNOTTING

As remarked in the introduction, knots have been with us practically as
long as there have been humans to tie them. Among their earliest uses
(in addition to securing things) were recordkeeping and measurement.
But they were also used extensively for decorative purposes.

In Western society, knots often appeared in heraldry, as particular
knots became associated with various family trees. In the East, some

decorative knots were held to have mystic symbolism or to bring good
luck. (Western traditions have occasionally connected knots with luck as
well; when Alexander cut the Gordian Knot, an oracle predicted that he
would become king of Asia, a prophecy that was fulfilled, if only for a
short time.) Entire art forms (for example, macramé) have been
developed using knots. It could also be said that knitting and crocheting
are essentially based on creating knots.

Here, for your interest, are some of the more common decorative
knots.

COW HITCH

Also called the Lark’s Head, the Cow Hitch is used in decorative work. It
is only considered secure if the tension is on both ends.

STEP 1 Start by making a double crossing turn over an object.