The Chinese Button Knot (纽扣结) is a compact, versatile knot that’s not only beautiful but also highly functional.
Traditionally, it has been used in place of buttons to fasten clothing, particularly on traditional garments like the qipao or cheongsam. However, its use extends far beyond its practical origins—today, you’ll find this knot in jewelry-making, accessory designs, and even as decorative accents on bags or home decor.
What makes the Chinese Button Knot so unique is its intricate, symmetrical design. It’s formed by looping and interlocking the cord in a way that creates a secure, rounded shape, much like a bead. But unlike a bead, the knot is made entirely from the same piece of cord, giving it a seamless look. The tightness of the knot makes it both durable and elegant, making it perfect for embellishing crafts or adding a traditional touch to modern designs.
Curiously, the Chinese Button Knot also carries a symbolic meaning of unity and completion. Its closed, circular shape represents continuity and wholeness, much like many other traditional Chinese knots. Whether used for its original purpose or incorporated into modern designs, this knot remains a popular and timeless part of Chinese craftsmanship.
Read also: Chinese Knots how-to: The complete guide to Chinese New Year traditional craft
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Materials needed:
- Satin cord or Paracord
- Polymer clay slab or any soft board to pin the cord in place
- Sewing pins
- MINI SIZE: Measures 7.5 x 10 inches and made of a 0.5-inch-thick foam. It’s lightweight and small – excellent for travel…
- BOARD: The imprinted 6 x 9-inch grid makes measuring your project easy. It’s also self-healing so you can use pins witho…
- PATENTED CORD MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: There are specially designed notches on all sides of the board that hold cords securely…
- Round 2mm Nylon Cord: Unlike polyester rat tail cord, our soft red nylon cord removes stretchiness & retains shape. The …
- Nylon 2mm Cord for Beading & Jewelry Making: The red cords for jewelry making make perfect satin nylon strings for brace…
- Satin Rattail Cord for Crafts, Crochet, Scrapbooking, & Braiding: The thin nylon cord is great craft string for dream ca…
How to tie the Cloverleaf Knot
Step by Step Instructions:
Are you interested in Chinese culture?
Check out this post on how to teach Chinese calligraphy to kids, or this list of my favourite Mid-Autumn inspired books.
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How to Tie a Double Coin Knot|The Chinese Knots Encyclopedia
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Chinese Knots how-to: The complete guide to Chinese New Year traditional craft
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