I collected the cord from paper carrier and gift bags for a few years. As the collection grew larger and the cords got tangled up I extracted the ones made from natural fibre and discarded the rest. I never knew why I was collecting them, only that one day I would need them. I have been introduced to the world of knots by my dear friend Sue Vincent.
I was amazed to find that there is a language of knots. So if you’re at a loose end and fancy learning the difference between the ascending end, bight, clockwise loop and a pentaradial I suggest checking out the step by step guides available on YouTube. If you prefer an illustrated book I suggest Decorative Fusion Knots. To whet your appetite, section one is available to download in PDF at Decorative Fusion Knots.
The above is my first attempt at a double coin knot and a cloud knot.
theINFP 
Something peaceful about these knots. Maybe it is the symmetry. Or the white on black. Reminds me of a cross between the peace sign and Yin and Yang. {{{hugs]}} Kozo
It’s funny you mention this Kozo. I have two black and two lengths of white cord. My first thought was to make a Yin and Yang knot; there’s nothing like running before I can walk 🙂
Make sure you post a picture when you master the “empty knot.” 🙂
Beautiful Robert! 🙂
Thank you, Sue 🙂
🙂
Somehow your posting reminded me of my days as a Boy Scout, although our knots were intended to be primarily functional, not decorative. Still, we had some cool-sounding names like a bowline on a bight. If I can scare up some rope, I might have to try a few of these.
I just found an International Guild of Knot Tyers, apparently tying knots is a dying craft according to Low-Tech Magazine
Something quite Celtic in the knot patterns.
Yes, that is part of the reason I find them fascinating. I like their simple appearance, yet trying to trace the path of the cord with my eye is challenging.