Pearl necklaces are knotted. That means, if you look very closely, you’ll see tiny knots in between each pearl bead. Pearls are not the only beads strung in this fashion. Many of your finer beaded jewelry is knotted. There are a few reasons for this: knots keep the beads from rubbing against each other, and, if the piece breaks, beads won’t go flying.
There are a few ways to knot a beaded necklace. This week, I’ll show the "cheater’s" way. Of course, that’s what I call it. It’s really just another way to knot - not the only way. I especially recommend trying this technique if you’re new to knotting.
First, you’ll need to determine the type of cord you want to use. There are two types that are most often used for knotting: silk and nylon. Silk is the choice of the traditional knotter. However, many complain that it snags and frays. Nylon cord can also be used. Both come in a variety of colors such as black, white, burgundy, blue, pink, and brown. They can be purchased on small cards with about 6 feet of cord and a needle attached or, for the serious knotter, larger spools can be purchased with separate needles. They also come in different sizes. The thicker cord is used for the larger beads since the holes in the beads are larger. For the "cheater’s" technique, two strands are put through each bead, so a thinner size is needed. For 6mm beads, I usually use size 2 for this technique.
For the purposes of this feature, I’m using white nylon cord and hematite beads because I want you to be able to see clearly. However, it’s best to try to match the color of the cord with the color of the beads.
First, a knotted necklace must be started just as any basic beaded necklace would be. Though there a few ways to start a beaded necklace , my usual choice is with bead tips (clamp shells). The only difference is that two strands of the cord are inserted through the bead tip instead of one.
Once the necklace is started, string on a bead, and make an over hand knot. Make the knot tight so it’s snug up against the bead.
Continue to do this: string a bead, make an over hand knot, string a bead, make an over hand knot. That’s it. Again, finish the necklace as you would any beaded necklace whether it’s knotted or not.
The reason I call this a way to cheat at knotting is because normally only one strand of cord is used. However, this technique is simply and the results provide the same results as a single strand knotted cord would provide.
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.
