Walk through a Chinese market during festival season and you will see knots everywhere: red cords twisted into symmetrical shapes, hanging from doorways, bags, and car mirrors. Each knot has a name and a wish.
Here are five of the most common Chinese knots and what they mean.
The endless knot
The endless knot looks like a square loop with no beginning and no end. It represents long life, eternal blessings, and the interconnected nature of all things. You often see it at weddings and birthday celebrations.
The double coin knot
Named because it resembles two ancient coins side by side, this knot is a wish for wealth and prosperity. It is one of the easiest knots for beginners to learn and is often used as the base for more complex designs.
The butterfly knot
Shaped like a butterfly, this knot symbolizes love and happy marriage. It is popular in bridal accessories and gifts between couples.
The cloverleaf knot
This knot is made of three or four loops that look like clover leaves. It represents good luck and is often added to sachets and pendants.
The pan chang knot
The pan chang is one of the most elegant Chinese knots, with loops arranged around a central diamond. It symbolizes good luck and is often used as the centerpiece of larger decorations.
Once you learn to recognize these five, you can read the wishes written in cord wherever Chinese knots are tied.