Fun with chinese Knotting-(Berkeiey)
D1006-54 -- 4255 --03 Basic Knots (55-69)FIN_ 10/18/06 5:57 PM Page 62
62 GOOD LUCK KNOT
Good Luck Knot
Unlike the majority of knots whose names derive from the decorative motifs they
represent, this often-seen knot was a nameless orphan. Here it is called the good luck
knot, in keeping with the names of its many auspicious sister knots. It is hoped that
the knot will bring good fortune to knotter and wearer alike.Tying
This knot affords almost endless variation. It can be tied with three, four, five, six or
even more outer loops. If careful attention is paid to the tightening process, it can be
tied with compound petals – a small circle of loops in between the large outer ones.
To start the knot, lay out the cord with as many elongated loops as you want in the
finished product. (For reasons of space, the loops in diagrams 1–3 are not as long as
they actually need to be to tie the knot.) Cross these loops over each other in the same
direction and pull them to secure them – but not too tightly or the smaller loops will
not appear later on. Then repeat the process in the opposite direction. When the knot
is finished, the cord ends will be off-center. If you want to hang a pendant from the
knot or proceed with another knot, follow alternate steps 4 and 5 in the inset in order
to make a balanced good luck knot.Tip
- It is hard to control the knot when the number of outer loops is more than four or
five. It helps to stitch them in place before beginning step 2. After finishing step 2 and
pulling the cords secure, you can remove the stitches.
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