Fusion Knots (def.) : Innovative knots created through the merging of different knot elements or knotting techniques. Members of the International Guild of Knot Tyers (IGKT; officially founded in 1982) updated ABOK in 1979, adding what
was then believed to be a new knot called the
Hunter's Bend (i.e.
Rigger's Bend). Many of the guild members have gone
on to write multiple books on the subject of knots. Most of these books, with the exception of a select few (primarily books
written by IGKT co-founder
Sir. Geoffrey Budworth - I personally believe Mr. Budworth should be knighted), focus on
what has come before as opposed to new knots or recently created knots. When it comes to decorative knots, this last
statement is especially true.
So where do we go from here?
What does the future hold for knots?
The answer to both these questions, I believe, is fusion knots: innovative knots created through the merging of different
knot elements or knotting techniques.
Like origami figurines created through the folding of paper, rope in the hands of a fusion knot tyer becomes a vehicle for
exploring evermore complex and imaginative knot designs. Fusion knot tyers gather inspiration from history, nature,
mythology, or any other source that moves them to tie. They see knots as assemblages of discrete parts, rather than
indivisible units of information.
For instance, the
Celtic Tree of Life Knot (a fusion knot) is the result of combining three different knot elements - one
derived from the
Trinity Knot, one from the
Ring of Coins, and one from the
Handbasket Knot. Together, these three
elements commingle to create something different, something more elaborate and impactful.
My book is an introduction to the world of decorative fusion knots, but more so it is a bridge between what is and what
can be. In turn, alongside fusion knots, I present instructions for historical knots, knots that were discovered or created
before 1979 (the year the IGKT updated ABOK). Historical knots are the foundations for and elements of fusion knots,
so knowing how to tie them is important.
Although, fusion knots can be used for jewelry, they are not simply for that purpose. The knots are well suited for multiple
other purposes, including utilitarian ones. Also, YouTube provides insight into the gender of the persons who view my (video)
work. And, as fate would have it,
76% of my viewers are men.
I also have viewers who are woman, women who use fusion knots in the creation of their jewelry. Still, I feel it would be a
disservice to the knotting community at large, to call out to this subgroup only. In short fusion knots and fusion (multimedia)
teaching techniques have been used by:
- Bush Crafters;
- Paracord Tyers;
- Sailors/Coxcombing Enthusiasts;
- Teachers (seeking memory and motor skill curriculum);
- Asian Folk Knot Tyers;
- Rope Riggers;
- Puzzle Crafters;
- Jewelry Makers;
- Religious and Spiritual Practitioners;
- Backwoods Survivalists; and
- General Knot Enthusiasts.
Women and men, alike...
Respectfully,
JD ~ TIAT
Please Note: My response is only meant to be a clarification of, what I hope will become, a new category of knot tying.
Put simply, I'm grateful for your question and appreciative of your naming suggestion.
