Fun with chinese Knotting-(Berkeiey)
D1006-54 -- 4225 --01 Resurg of Ch Knot (4-26)FIN_ 10/16/06 7:17 PM Page 19
Fun with chinese Knotting-(Berkeiey)
D1006-54 -- 4225 --01 Resurg of Ch Knot (4-26)FIN_ 10/16/06 7:16 PM Page 19
FORMATION SKILLS 19
TBGeneral design principles
The most elegant knot formations are invariably the result of taking into account
such basic design principles as balance, contrast, harmony and variety. When design-
ing a hanging ornament, care must be given to its center of gravity. When enhancing
a knot formation with a hanging ornament, it is also important to check that the knot
formation can support the ornament without distorting the shape.Application compatibility
Since a knot formation comprises a combination of two or more different
knots, it is necessary to decide at the outset of a project which knots in an orna-
ment will be the major ones and which will be the minor ones. In the example
shown in diagram 29, four cloverleaf knots form the minor knots, and these
are used to highlight the central pan changknot, which is the major, dominant
knot in the formation.
It is also necessary to consider what will be the dominant element in a forma-
tion – the knot itself or the decorative embellishment(s) – as the dominant element
must be more eye-catching. Diagram 30 shows that the knot formation, enhanced
by a small circular piece of jade, is the major feature. When the embellishment is to
be the main design element, it must not be overshadowed by a knot formation whose
purpose is merely to support and augment the embellishment. As an example,
diagram 31 shows how a smaller knot can be used to grace a larger piece of agate.
Consideration must also be given to the compatibility between the knot forma-
tion and the embellishment(s). For example, hair clasps – long hanging ornaments
with tassels – are designed in such a way that when the wearer walks the tassels will
dangle in harmony, contributing to a graceful appearance. Diagram 32 illustrates a
fan decorated with a knot formation sprouting a tassel. A woman using this fan will
attract attention as the long tassel swings to the movement of her hand.293031
32See project 131 on page 158 for instructions
on making this knot formation.