Star knot button

A six-pointed star emerges from three lengths of cord

By Robert Black

Published: July 1, 2009

Knot tying is a centuries-old skill practiced by sailors on long ocean voyages. During the early 1800s, few sailors could read, so they spent their free time onboard perfecting their knot-typing repertoire. Knowledge of complicated knots was a mark of the accomplished seaman, who often kept secret the details of how to tie a specific knot. Sailors displayed their handwork on clothing, ditty bag lanyards, and other functional items.

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