How to Tie Basic Celtic Knots

Celtic knots are known for being continuous, representing the idea of infinity. They can be used for decoration, as well as in jewelry and beadwork. The idea of interlacing patterns is also known as plaitwork. There are many kinds of Celtic knot patterns, but the basic symmetrical square is simple to construct.

Things You'll Need

• Two strings or chords (each about 2 feet long)

Instructions

Tying the Knot

1. Tie the ends of the two strings together and fasten the end knot to a table or hook that you can use for resistance when you are tying your Celtic knot. You should have a right side string and a left side string.

2. Make a quarter-sized loop with the string on the left side. Take the string on the right side and thread it over the left string, under the left string, then back over the left string.

3. Keep looping the right side string around the other string, taking it up and under the crossing string, and up and under the next crossing string. Your knot should begin to look like a square with rounded edges.

4. Continue to loop the string around the top of the knot, taking it under and over the final crossing string. Gently pull the knot to check if it is symmetrical.

References

• Later Life: Celtic Knots Handicraft