A Guide to the Unity Handfasting Knot

 

                                      Tying the Knot, Literally 

The wedding ceremony is full of beautiful traditions, and for couples seeking a deeply symbolic and interactive element, the handfasting unity knot is a wonderful choice. This ancient ritual, experiencing a resurgence in modern weddings, literally binds the couple together, symbolizing their commitment and shared future. If you're considering incorporating a handfasting into your special day, here’s a breakdown of how to tie the unity knot.

(There are many step by step videos on youtube showing using more than 1 cord/ropes, different knot styles)

Step-by-Step Guide to Tying the Unity Knot:

1. Face Each Other: Begin by facing your partner. Extend your hands towards each other, with your left hand resting on top of your partner's right, and your right hand resting on top of their left. You'll be using one hand from each of you, or both hands, depending on your preference and the specific knot variation. Some couples even choose to cross their right hands, as if shaking hands, for this initial connection.

2. Draping the Cords: Take your chosen cords or ropes and drape them over the couple's hands. If you're using multiple cords, drape one at a time. The goal is to arrange them so that the ends fall equally on either side of the hands, keeping the ends even throughout the process.

3. Hold the Back Cord: With your right hand, gently take hold of the back cord or cords. You'll want to hold it firm; this cord will remain stationary for the next few steps, forming the foundation of your knot.

4. Forward Movement: Now, with your left hand, take hold of the front cord and bring it forward, under the hands. This starts to create the initial loop of your knot.

5. Passing the Back Cord: Pass the back cord over the top of the front cord, moving from left to right. This crosses the cords over the hands, setting up the main knot.

6. Bringing the Back Cord Back: Bring the back cord back under the front cord, moving from right to left. This creates a loop around the front of the cords. This is often referred to as "the first loop!"

7. Lifting and Tucking: Lift the back cord up, towards the top of the hands. Tuck it under the length of cord that runs across the top of the hands, pulling it up on the right. This secures the loop you've just created.

8. Final Tuck: Finally, lay the back cord over the back of the hands and then tuck it under, from left to right.

9. Release and Tighten: Let go of the back cord. The knot is nearly ready! When it's time, the couple can slowly slide their hands from the knot while the ends of the cord are pulled tight from both sides. This action will create a beautifully formed unity knot, leaving your hands free but symbolically bound.

The beauty of the unity knot lies not only in its visual representation but also in the collaborative act of tying it. It's a powerful moment that can add profound meaning to your wedding ceremony, symbolizing the strength and interconnectedness of your bond.

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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational and inspirational purposes only. The instructions for the unity knot were derived from an image found on the internet and are not my original creation.