Traditional Knotting

Most pearl necklaces are knotted using a traditional technique. Though it is a little more difficult than the cheater’s way, it is not impossible to learn, and it will add an extra finished look to pearl, as well as, other beaded necklaces. As with most jewelry techniques, the more you practice, the better you will become. The most difficult part of traditional knotting is getting the knot snug up against the bead.

I only knot occasionally. So, I’ve developed a way to knot using either a corsage pin or an old stick pin that I have. (A straight pin is not strong enough for this.) However, if you plan to do a lot of knotting, you might want to consider either learning to use an awl and a pair of tweezers or, for a more high tech approach, take a look at Rio Grande’s "tri-cord knotter" which is a combination of both. These tools will make it easier for you to make consistent and tight knots. Most bead vendors sell tools which are specially made for knotting. Many of them also offer books and even videos on this technique as well.

For my way of traditional knotting, along with the corsage or stick pin you just need your beads and choice of cord. For this demonstration, I’m using burgundy colored nylon no. 4 cord and 6mm mother of pearl beads. I’ve chosen to use contrasting colors so they show up better in the pictures. Of course, if I were to make a necklace, I’d match up my cord to the color of my beads.

First, the necklace is started as you would any other beaded necklace. As I’ve previously explained, I’m a bead tip person. Only one strand of cord is needed for this more traditional technique.

Once the necklace is started, string on the first bead. Now, tie an over hand knot, but keep it loose.

Insert the pin through the loose knot.

Now use the pin to push the knot down towards the bead until the knot and pin are flush up against the bead.

Here comes the tricky part. Keep the knot up against the bead (not too tight) while you slip the pin out. Then take the pin and hold it on top of the cord and up against the knot. Pull the cord with one hand, and push the knot against the bead using the pin in your other hand. (Hopefully, you’re not trying to chew gum and rub your stomach too.)

Now, continue doing this after each bead is strung.

Once you try this, you might find ways to adjust it that work better for you. Instead of pushing the knot against the bead with the pin, you might feel more comfortable using your fingers. You might want to knot from right to left or left to right. Try a few experiments until you find a way that works best for you.

For more information about the history, care, lore, and trends, take a look at the links provided in the Pearls section of this site.

All graphics created by Tammy Powley.