46
47
48
See project 134 on page 160 for instructions on making this knot formation.
Thread bindings
Thread bindings of similar or contrasting colors can both embellish and stiffen a knot formation, as shown in the outer loop in diagram 47. Binding the cord ends below a major knot is a variation on using beads or a small knot to enhance a design. Binding the join of two cord ends can both improve the appearance of a knot and hide the join. The cord ends in a tassel can also be folded back and fastened with thread or, as shown in diagram 48, the ends can be tied into a knot and then fastened with threads to the tassel cords.
Tassels
Tassels normally form the last part of an ornament and give it grace and life. Since the length of a tassel can be easily adjusted, it has a harmonious effect on the overall knot formation. There are many different types of tassels. Besides the five types taught in this book (pages 111–117), simple tassels can be made by folding back the cords and hooking them to the last knot, then tying the upper part of the tassel with threads, as in diagram 49. Alternatively, after making a knot formation, the cord ends can be tied into small knots and fastened with threads, as shown in diagram 50. Or each cord end can be strung with beads, then folded back and the cord ends bound with threads to prevent the beads from sliding down, as shown in diagram 51.
Frames
Knot formations can be held in position with jade or other rings or rattan, wood or metal frames. One way of using a frame is to line it tightly with flat knots or creeper knots. Another is to leave spaces around a central knot, as in diagram 52. The knot and frame are then linked using the outer loop hook-up technique (page 16).
49
50
51
52
See project 135 on page 160 for instructions on making this knot formation.
Cord Materials
Traditional Chinese knots were – and still are – made from silk or cotton cords. For the contemporary knotter, however, there are literally hundreds of types of cord to choose from: jute, hemp, twine, string, wool, leather, synthetic fiber, metal wire. In fact, anything that can be bent and tied without tearing has potential. Many materials can be found in your own home or neighborhood, while others need to be purchased from stores dealing in crafts, yarn, embroidery, macramé and tailor’s supplies.
Because different materials have different textures, knot formations made from different cords will exhibit different styles and give totally different results. Because silk cords are fine, they are most suitable for classical knot formations. Cotton cords are thicker and tougher and hold their shape well. Jute cords express roughness and freedom and hence are suitable for bigger knot formations. Woolen cords have shorter fibers and tend to fray easily. They also tend not to show a clear-cut weave. Nylon and other synthetic cords are smooth and hard and tend to be loose, but if tightened properly are ideal for making stiffer knot formations. Generally, rigid cord is hard to control as it will not conform to shape. On the other hand, an overly pliant cord will not take on any shape at all. The secret lies in striking a balance between the two.
The grains in a cord will also have an impact on the visual effect of a knot. A cord with simple grains will not overshadow a knot pattern, whereas cords with complicated grains – intricately woven, unevenly textured or variegated cords – tend to detract attention from the knots themselves and muddle their patterns.
It is also important to ensure that a knot formation and the accompanying decorative objects are compatible with the cord chosen. Bigger and rougher objects go with thicker cords, small, elegant pieces with finer ones. To express grace and elegance, soft cords are ideal. To highlight a clear-cut weave, hard cords are best.
53
54
55
56
The world of Chinese knotting can be greatly enriched and enlivened by departing from the use of traditional materials such as silk and cotton cords and branching out into glossy plastic, shiny metal, natural clay and colorful cloth. The plastic cords used in the knot shown above are both stain and fire resistant. They also make a strong contemporary statement.
Leather
Leather can be formed into cylindrical strips or, as shown in diagram 54, into flat cords to make knot formations which are compatible with leather bags or other similar items. Since leather has a glossy and a rough side, a choice is available according to the needs of a particular design.
Cloth
The buttons on traditional Chinese robes, as demonstrated in diagram 55, are actually Chinese knots made from cloth. A plain color cloth is suitable for making knots for more classical attire, whereas colorful cloth can form trendy knot formations for present-day fashion wear.
Plastic
Plastic cords, shown in diagram 56, are glossy and are stain and water resistant. They can can be used to make knot formations for colorful garments, or for ornaments that frequently come into contact with water.
Metal
Metallic cords, which are stiff but do not snap when bent, can be used for making knots. Guitar strings or fuse wires that are relatively pliant, as shown in diagram 57, can be made into knot formations using one’s hands alone. However, harder metallic cords such as copper wires, illustrated in diagram 58, need to be shaped with pliers.
Paper
