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Sailors Knot

 
Sailors Knot
 

Description: The Sailors Knot is also called the Carrick Bend. Since it looks like two fish intertwined, that’s probably what it was supposed to represent, when it was first designed. Similar to a Josephine knot, it’s a good technique to use when you want an attractive knot to stand out. You can even use it to link 2 cords together, or as a mounting knot. I’ve used this decorative knot to make bracelets, necklaces, and within the body of some plant hanger patterns. They hold their shape better if you use the stiffer materials, such as leather or Braided Macrame cord. See the Basic Bracelet for a pattern using this decorative knot.

Click on any of the images and larger photos will show up so you can see the details.


Step 1: Obtain 2 cords to practice with, each at least 36 inches long. Mount them to a holding cord or dowel.

 
  First Loop with Left Cord   Step 2: Take the left cord and make a loop, heading counter-clockwise. Secure it to your project board. Note that the design is "fish-shaped", with a head, and upper and lower tails.  
 
  Use the Right Cord for the Second Loop   Step 3: Bring the right cord under the middle of the loop, and over the lower tail of the left cord.  
 
  Pass Into the Space Between the Cords   Step 4: Bring the right cord into the space between the 2 strands, passing under the upper tail of the left cord.  
 
  Weave the End Through the First Loop  

Step 5: Pass the right cord through the loop, weaving over, under, and over the coils.

Tighten the knot gradually, so the Sailors Knot is even and symmetrical.

 
 
 

Patterns

 
 
Sailors Knot Sennit
 
There are 2 types of patterns that can be made using this decorative knot. The first is a straight sennit, with the knots tied in a vertical row.
 
  Tie the Second Knot Below the First   Simply tie the first Sailor Knot, then make another one just below. Continue to make as many knots as you wish, and tighten them so they are all the same size. This makes a beautiful interlaced design.  
 
 
 
Alternating Sailors Knot Pattern
 
The other way the Sailors Knot can be used is in an Alternating design, similar to Square Knots.
 
  Make the First Row Using All Strands   Step 1: Mount at least 6 cords to a dowel or holding cord to practice this decorative design. Tie a row of Sailor Knots, using 2 strands per knot. Mentally number the ends 1 thru 6.  
 
  Two Strands are Not Used in the Second Row   Step 2: Tie the second row using cords 2 and 3 for the first knot, and 4 and 5 for the second knot. This alternates the cords you use for the Sailor Knots, but they are tied exactly the same way as the others.  
 
Step 3: The third row is the same as the first, with 3 knots using all the strands.
 
 
 
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