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Sailors Knot

 
Sailors Knot
 
 

Description: The Sailors Knot is also called the Carrick Bend. It's considered a variation of the Josephine knot, but you use two cords to create two loops, rather than three.

This decorative knot is a great technique to use when making jewelry projects, particularly with leather, which helps hold the knot's shape. You can also use it to link 2 cords together, or as a mounting knot.

Below the main instructions I have also shown you two other ways to use it; in a sennit (chain), and with an alternating design.

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

 
 
Step 1: You need 2 cords to practice with, each at least 36 inches long. Using two colors really helps while you are learning.
 
 
  Loop 1  

Secure both cords to your board. Rotate the cord on the left counter-clockwise to make a loop.

Make sure the working end passes under the secured end to make the crossing point.

 
 
 
  Loop 2  

Step 2: Direct the cord on the right over the first loop, and under the working end of the first cord.

Bring it over the secured end (at the top), as you rotate it clockwise.

 
 
 
  Complete Loop 2   Step 3: Weave the working end of the second cord through the first loop, by passing it under - over - under the three segments.  
 
 
  Tighten the Knot  

Step 4: Tighten the Sailors Knot by pulling on the ends.

 
 
 
 
Macrame Cord Divider
 

Sennit

 
 
  Sailors Knot Sennit  

There are two types of patterns that can be tied with this decorative knot.

The first is a sennit, which is tying the knot over and over, in a vertical design.

Something like this can be used as a bracelet, a belt, or a strap.

 
 
 
  Loop 1  

Step 1: Tie the first Sailors Knot following the instructions above, close to one end of the cords. Secure it to your board. The working cords will be the long ends, at the bottom.

Make a counter-clockwise loop with the working cord on the left (Black). Make sure the end goes under to make the crossing point.

 
 
 
  Loop 2  

Step 2: Take the working cord on the right (Green), and bring it across the loop (over).

Pass it under the working end of the first cord.

It needs to pass over the segment of the first cord coming from the knot above.

 
 
 
  Weave  

Step 3: Weave the end through the three segments of the loop, under - over - under.

Tighten the second knot, and repeat the process.

 
 
 
 
Macrame Cord Divider
 

Alternating Pattern

 
 
Alternating Sailors Knot Pattern
 
 
The other way the Sailors Knot can be used is in an Alternating pattern, similar to Square Knots. Start by securing 3 folded cords to your board.
 
 
  First Row  

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

Make the knots using cords 1 - 2, 3 - 4, and 5 - 6.

 
 
 
  Second Row   Step 2: For the second row, alternate the cords. The first knot is made with cords 2 - 3. The following one is tied with cords 4 - 5.  
 
 
  Third Row   Step 5: Repeat the steps above to make additional rows.  
 
 
 
 
Macrame Cord Divider
 
 

 

Build a Ship in a Bottle    
 

Build a Ship in a Bottle

 
Macrame Cord Divider
 
 
 

Have any comments about the Sailors Knot? Contact Me.

 

 



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