There are a few important knots that you'll use again and again in jewelry making and macramé. Once you learn these knots, you can combine them in different ways to create your own original designs.

To tie several strands together, use an overhand knot. Wrap all of the strands around your hand, and then place the ends through the loop. Pull the ends to tighten the knot. Sometimes this knot is used to fasten a cord necklace without a clasp. Simply place the knot through the beginning loop.

Overhand knots can also be used to space beads apart on a strand, like I did with this necklace. When using thread or silk cord, you can use a beading awl or knotting to help make the knots evenly spaced.

A half knot is the knot you use to tie your shoe. When you tie two half knots in opposite directions, you get a square knot. A square knot can be used between beads or you can make a long chain of square knots, which is called a square knot sinnet.