I have managed to gather together a few tutorials on how to create some rather lovely decorative Sennits and Plaits. Many of the sennits below have been taken from Creative Ropecraft by Stuart E Grainger, the book is no longer in print, but click on the link above and you should be able to find a copy on eBay. I once won a copy of this book in a raffle, it is probably the best prize I have ever won. I often refer to this book when I am looking for some ideas or if I want to create a certain style of sennit.

Sennits and Plaits for Knotted Picture Frames

I will admit that as of yet, I have not taken up the challenge of creating a knotted picture frame. I often think that the task of creating all those sennits would drive me mad. I am sure though that the end result would be something to be really proud of. This wonderful example below uses perhaps 4 different sennits. Often an extended Ocean Plait is used on the corners to cove the joins where the sennits meet.

In the next image you will see that the frame is rather more complex, probably not something I would be able to achieve. This was created by dcm727, who’s real name eludes me. With both these picture frames you can let your skills and imagination run wild when you create your knotted frame

Various Sennits and Plaits for Your Knot Frame

3 Strand Plait Doubled

This is probably the easiest of all the sennits or plaits, as we often learn to do this one as children. It is done in exactly the same way, except that the three strands are doubled making it 6 strands to work with.

Three Strand Plait Doubled Video Tutorial

4 Strand French Sennit

This will give you are rather pleasing narrow weave.

How to Tie the 4 Strand French Sennit

4 Strand Round Sennit

A nice round sennit to fill in some narrow gaps in your knotted frame. I also often use this one for when I am making a long knife lanyard.

How to Tie the 4 Strand Round Sennit

6 Strand French Sennit Toss

This particular 6 strand French sennit I got from one of Brion Toss’s Rigging books.

How to Tie the 6 Strand French Sennit

6 Strand French Sennit

Another Pleasing and wide French Sennit.

How to Tie the 6 Strand French Sennit

Braids Sennits and Weaves

I do have a playlist on YouTube called Braids Sennits and Weaves. There is also a channel on YouTube @TrevvettKnots where there are not only fine examples of the knotted frames that he has created, but I think that John may have also included some knotting frame tutorials.

Planning to Make a Knotted Frame

If you are planning to make a knotted frame, I am sure that once you have started this venture, you will thoroughly enjoy the process. At the end of it, you will have a piece of work that will astound people……. even fellow knotters.

Decorative Sennits for Lanyards

Decorative sennits are a type of decorative knot that can be used to create intricate and colourful patterns. These knots can be used to make a decorative lanyard, which is a cord or rope that is worn around the neck, often to hold keys, IDs, or other small items. By using decorative sennits to make a lanyard, you can create a unique and attractive accessory that not only serves a functional purpose, but also makes a fashion statement. The colours and patterns of the sennits can be customised, making it a versatile and fashionable accessory. Additionally, the decorative sennits used to make the lanyard can be made to make it the perfect length. The end result is a beautiful, unique and useful lanyard that can be worn for any occasion.

Decorative Knot Craft

If you’re after a great guide to decorative knotting, check out Des Pawson’s “Book on Knot Craft.” With 60 projects and 20 rope mat designs, it’s user-friendly, providing clear instructions on the cordage length for each project. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, the book offers an enjoyable exploration into knot crafting, enriched by Pawson’s expertise. A must-have for anyone keen on the art of knotting!

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