Traditional Chinese knots remain a niche craft
"It was a niche when I started, and still is. Not many people are doing it, especially today when arts and crafts are more like a novelty than a pastime."
“Knots actually date back to prehistoric times, while decorative knots are relatively recent. The wives of wealthy Chinese rulers – who were probably bored at home, since women couldn’t work back then – would use the knots to reflect their status and change up their wardrobe."
"Many cultures including the Koreans, Japanese, Egyptians and Incans have their own versions of decorative knots too. My focus of course remains on Chinese knotting, where every knot has its own unique meaning."
Silver-friendly craft
"It could even end up being a treasured item."
"But because it’s something I love to do for myself, I would keep doing this to the end, when my eyes force me to stop."
Traditional Chinese knots and what they represent
- BROCADE KNOT: Ai Geok’s favourite knot, the brocade knot is a versatile knot that represents unity.
- CLOVER KNOT: Resembling clover leaves, this knot symbolises good luck.
- COIN KNOT: This beginner-friendly knot, made to look like a pair of ancient coins, represents prosperity.
- WEAVE KNOT: Often mistaken as the default ‘Chinese knot’ due to a lack of knowledge, the weave knot was the first knot to be machine-made, hence its widespread availability.
