Chinese Knotting: Creative Designs that are Easy and Fun!

by Lydia Chen

Knotting, "the joining of two cords," is an old and revered art form in China and an integral part of Chinese life. Since ancient times, Chinese knots have been used for a variety of practical and decorative to record events, aid in fishing and hunting, wrap and tie items, embellish personal attire, jewelry and fashion, ornament other works of art, and communicate. The intricate knot work and magnificent color combinations not only lent elegance to everyday objects, or a touch of gaiety and enchantment but were an aesthetic expression of Chinese folk symbolism, expressing wishes for good fortune and wealth or the joys of love and marriage. In craft book Chinese Knotting , author Lydia Chen first traces the origins, history, and symbolism of this fascinating craft, before taking the reader through the fundamental elements necessary for tying Chinese decorative knots--the materials, implements, and main processes.

Step-by-step instructions are then given for the 11 basic knots, which provide the building blocks for the 14 compound knots-combinations and variations of the simple knots-that follow in the next section. The final section presents 41 knotting projects of varying difficulty. Detailed instructions, clear diagrams, and color photographs, combined with an exciting assortment of creative applications, will help readers discover the relaxation, artistic satisfaction, and beautifully personalized ornamentation that Chinese Knotting can offer.

Genres: Crafts, Nonfiction

116 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1982

Reviews

[Linda Munro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes, you have to look into something different, something to broaden your horizons. One method is to examine crafts, techniques and ease of construction with a wonderful, new product. For anyone who loves spending time at craft shows, how often do you see the same items, crocheted, knitted, painted or crafted? Do you think it's time for something new? Try researching crafts from around the world, not something simply of another culture; but, something that has a unique history as well.

Knotting began in China during ancient times. It is an artform revered by the Chinese. The Chinese knots are used for several purposes, both practical and decorative. The knots are also an expression of Chinese folk symbolism; relaying wishes of good fortune and wealth as well as joy in love and marriage.

This book not only shows what is necessary to make a variety of knots, it also shows and tells the process of each knot; it also offers a history of the knotting process and the symbolism behind each knot.

For those like me, always seeking that product made in the USA; this book offers the beauty of ancient Chinese symbolism, made with love in the USA.

[Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

The techniques of Chinese knotting are described fairly clearly, though clearly I could have studied them some more before delving into some of the designs. Had a lot of fun trying out the techniques with my daughter and her cadre of friends.

[Esther · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this book provides an easy visual guide and hints for making Chinese knots, I was amazed at how difficult it is to actually make the knots.

[Lisa Ulibarri · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite arts ☺

[Skedatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her two books should be used in tandem.