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Bonobo Bar

Description: The Bonobo Bar is a unique decorative knot that features small rectangular shapes arranged diagonally. This design requires two colors, to get the proper effect.

This knot pattern is suitable for a variety of Macrame projects. Bracelets, key chains, belts and more can be made with this design. When creating your own Plant Hangers, give this knot a try for the long sennits in the middle section.

The material used in the example is nylon Paracord, which I recommend for practicing. Be sure to melt the tips with a flame, to prevent the inner cord from sliding out.

I found this knot on the Fusion Knots website

Designs by JD Lenzen

Click on the image or link to visit his site. The video gallery contains tutorials for a wide variety of combination knots and techniques.

Preparation and Clasp

To practice, cut two cords, each at least 60 inches long.

When making something with the Bonobo Bar, such as a bracelet, you need to multiply the finished length by 12. Cut the two cords to that size.

The loop at the top is part of the clasp and is optional. Here are the steps if you decide to create the loop:

Fold the cords in half, placing color B under color A.

Match the centers and secure the cords to your board.

Move the right half of color B over color A, and under the left half of color B.

The left half goes under color A, and over the curved area of the right half, as you pull it to the right.

Tighten firmly by pulling on both ends. Adjust the size of the loop to match the button, bead, or knot that will be on the opposite end.

The next two steps are important, so the clasp will match the rest of the Bonobo Bar design:

Move the end of the color B cord that's now on the left, to the right.

Pass it under color A and over the right end of color B.

Move the end of the color B cord now on the right, passing over the color A cords.

Bring it through the curved area of color B on the left, passing over - under the two areas shown.

Pull the ends to firmly tighten the knot.

Bonobo Bar Design

Step 1: Mentally number the cords 1 - 4, moving left to right.

Move cord 3 to the right (color A), so it rests under cord 4.

Secure the cord on the right, and then bring it back to the left, passing over cord 4 and under cord 2.

Step 2: Move cord 2 under cord 3, and under cord 4.

As you pull it out on the right, pass it over the curved portion of cord 3.

Do not tighten the knot yet. Spread the segments so you can see all areas.

Step 3: Move cord 1 (color B) straight down, passing under the crossed area of cords 2 and 3.

Bring it over the lower segment of cord 2.

Both ends of color B pass over this segment, which is a good way to confirm the placement.

Step 4: Tighten the first half of the knot firmly. Make the second half as follows:

Move cord 3, which is now on the left, under cords 1 and 4.

Bring it over cord 2, which is on the right.

Step 5: Move cord 2 to the left, passing over cords 1 and 4.

Bring it through the curved area of cord 3 on the left, over - under.

Tighten the second half firmly by pulling on the ends.

Step 6: Repeat steps 1 - 5 to make the remaining knots.

Mentally re-number the cords before you start each new knot in the Bonobo Bar.

Here is a review of the steps:

<< Cord 3 goes under - over
cord 4, and under cord 2
(right to left)

Cord 2 goes under cord 3,
under cord 4, and over cord 3
(left to right) >>

<< Cord 1 goes under cords 2 - 3 where they cross, and over the lower segment of cord 2.

Cord 3 goes under 1 and 4, and over cord 2. Cord 2 goes over cords 1 and 4, and under cord 3. >

Finishing

After the last knot is tied, you need to complete the Bonobo Bar with a Half Knot:

Pass the left end over the two ends in the center, and under the right end.

Pass the right end under the two ends in the center, and over the left end (on the left).

Apply glue to the two ends in the center. Tighten the knot as much as you can, over the glue, so it's on the inside of the knot.

You can direct the ends you were just using to the back and work them under the back of the knots.

Another option is to cut off the extra material close to the Half Knot. Apply glue or melt the tips with heat to secure.

The remaining two ends are used to secure the button or bead, or to tie a button knot for the clasp.

Below are the two button knots I recommend. Click on the blue links below the photo for the instructions:

Knife Knot Oysterman Knot

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Have any comments about the Bonobo Bar? Contact Me.

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