Cross, square, slip hitch, butterfly, sailor, love, and spiral—these are just a few types of knots used to make knotted bracelets. Knotted bracelets are made by using a technique called macramé. Macramé is the art of knotting to create clothing, decorations, and jewelry. The more popular types of knotted bracelets are the square knot bracelet, the picot or butterfly knot bracelet, the cross knot bracelet, and the spiral knot bracelet.
  The Square:
    In order To make a square knot bracelet, take two central cords—long enough for a bracelet—and tie a knot about a 1/2 inch from the top. Then, take two more cords, one on either side of the center strands, and make loose knots all the way down by crossing one over and one under the center strands, then looping through the other to form a knot. Repeating this all the way down the center strands will result in consecutive knots. At the end, tighten the knots and you have a square knot bracelet.
  The Picot:
    For this bracelet, review the square knot. Take four pieces of hemp or cord. The two outside strands will be for knotting over the two inside strands. First, tie an overhand knot at the top of the two center strands. Then, make a square knot with the two outside strands over the center strands. Leave a space and make another square knot, then push the second up to the first. The effect is a butterfly shaped knot.
  The Cross:
    For the cross knot bracelet, you will need six strings. Knot them at the top. Then, take the three strings hanging from the knot (call them “the right side strings”) and group them together to make one thicker cord. Tie this cord around all three combined strings on the left (call them “the left side strings”), forming a knot. Repeat. Alternate on either side all the way down until you have a cross knot bracelet.
  The Spiral:
    Take two long strands that are long enough to go around your wrist. Double them to make four strands, and tie your knot at the top about a 1/2 inch down. Lay the strands on a flat surface so you can work. Take your left two strands and loop under, up, and through, then pull tight. You’ve made the first knot. Keep alternating all the way down until you have a finished spiral knot bracelet.
  In Knots:
    This is only a taste of the many different types of knotted bracelets. As you get more skilled, you can try more complicated knots, use different fabrics and add multiple color strands and beads. Knotted bracelets are a popular craft idea, and make unique, inexpensive gifts as well.