Intermediate · Knot guide

Josephine Knot

A Decorative Focal Point. The Josephine knot is a flat, symmetrical decorative knot that looks like two interwoven loops. It originates in Celtic and sailor knotwork and adds an instant focal point to any piece.

How to tie it

1 Why this knot matters
The Josephine knot is a flat, symmetrical decorative knot that looks like two interwoven loops. It originates in Celtic and sailor knotwork and adds an instant focal point to any piece. Take five minutes to practice it on scrap cord before you start any project that uses it — a clean version of this knot will visibly elevate your finished piece, and a sloppy one will pull the whole project down with it.
2 Step 1
Take two cords (or two pairs of cords treated as one). Lay one as a loose loop on the work surface.
3 Step 2
Lay the second cord across the first, going over and then under the loop.
4 Step 3
Now weave the second cord through the loop — under, over, under, over — following an alternating pattern.
5 Step 4
Adjust both cords until the knot is symmetrical. The knot should resemble a pretzel with two visible loops.
6 Step 5
Tighten gradually from all four ends so the knot stays flat and centered.
7 Common mistakes
The two most common ways this knot goes wrong: inconsistent tension between knots, and accidentally swapping which cord plays which role. Mark your working cords with a piece of tape until the muscle memory takes over. After a dozen practice repetitions on scrap cord, your hands will know what to do without looking.
8 Where to use it next
Once you have this knot down, every pattern on StitchVault that lists it in its Knots section will feel approachable. Start small — try it in a keychain or coaster project — before scaling up to a wall hanging or curtain. The knot itself is identical at any scale; only the cord length and patience required change.