Tying the Half Square Knot

The half square knot gives the effect of flat twisted ribbon. If you already know the square knot, you'll pick this one up in no time. The video will show you how to make a simple half knot macrame bracelet with hemp and a few beads.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1

Start with 4 lengths of cord that are about 7 times your bracelet size.

Step 2

Create an overhand knot at the fold, leaving a loop. Before you tighten the knot, make sure it's large enough to fit your clasp.

Step 3

Secure your knot to something that will allow for some tension when you're tying the knots. For this bracelet, we used a clipboard.

Make sure the 2 short strands, or core strands, are in the middle and the longer strands, or working strands, are on the outside. We'll use those for knotting.

Step 4

Create the shape of a number 4 using the working strand on the left.

Step 5

Take the working strand on the right and pass it over the top of the left working strand, keeping to the right of the core strands.

Pass the working strand on the right behind the core strands and through the loop created by the working strand on the left.

Step 6

Pull both working strands to tighten the knot. Make sure you're keeping tension on the core strands.

You've now completed one half square knot. Repeat steps 4-6, always starting with the working cord on the left.

Step 7

After doing a few, you'll start to see that natural spiral.

Step 8

To insert a bead into your square knot design, simply string the bead onto the two core strands. Round beads and cubes with large holes work best.

Step 9

Once your bead is strung, pull the working strands around the sides of the bead and continue on with your square knots.

Step 10

To finish the piece, string your clasp onto the core strands and secure it with an overhand knot.

Step 11

Trim excess cord and dab the knot with epoxy.

Designs using this Technique