Chinese KnotA cord. A quiet wish.

Chinese Knot

Wan Zi Knot

Arrange three large loops around a compact Wan Zi centre. Keep the cord doubled and loose while placing the return, then dress the centre and balance the standing and side loops.

万字结（总角结）

9:39 in total. Parts continue in order. Use English subtitles to switch captions on or off.

Follow the making process.

These checkpoints come from the demonstration. Replay the movement before tightening a hidden crossing.

  1. Step 1: Fold and pin the cord — 万字结（总角结）

    01. Fold and pin the cord

    Pin the long folded loop upright. Spread the two working ends below it.

  2. Step 2: Place the first loose crossing — 万字结（总角结）

    02. Place the first loose crossing

    Bring the ends across the bottom of the standing loop. Hold the centre loosely while preparing the side loops.

  3. Step 3: Form the left side loop — 万字结（总角结）

    03. Form the left side loop

    Fold the working length outward to the left and return it toward the centre. Keep the rounded loop broad.

  4. Step 4: Place the lower return — 万字结（总角结）

    04. Place the lower return

    Feed the returning length through the open centre along the demonstrated route. Keep the earlier side fold supported.

  5. Step 5: Check the three open loops — 万字结（总角结）

    05. Check the three open loops

    Complete the opposite side loop. Compare the long upright loop and two side loops before closing the centre.

  6. Step 6: Tuck the remaining return through the centre — 万字结（总角结）

    06. Tuck the remaining return through the centre

    Use the pointed tool to find the intended central opening. Place the final return without pulling the outer loops shut.

  7. Step 7: Lift the loose knot — 万字结（总角结）

    07. Lift the loose knot

    Ease the pins out while supporting the small centre. Keep the doubled strands beside each other.

  8. Step 8: Dress the compact centre — 万字结（总角结）

    08. Dress the compact centre

    Move surplus cord through the centre in small amounts. Straighten the neighbouring strands as the three loops settle.

  9. Step 9: Adjust the working ends — 万字结（总角结）

    09. Adjust the working ends

    Follow slack into the ends while holding the loop sizes steady. Compare both faces so the centre does not twist.

  10. Step 10: Check the finished loop outline — 万字结（总角结）

    10. Check the finished loop outline

    Balance the upright loop and two side ears around the compact centre. Leave the two ends distinct below it.

Check your finished piece

  • The standing loop and two side loops are clear and balanced.
  • The doubled strands sit alongside each other at the centre.
  • The centre is compact and the free ends remain distinct.