DIY Snake Knot

The snake knot is part of a long lineage of decorative and functional knots rooted in Chinese and Tibetan macramé traditions. It shares similarities with classical knots found in ancient Asian cordwork, where intricate knotting was used for both symbolism and style—often seen in ceremonial garments, religious artifacts, and decorative art. Today, the snake knot is the gateway knot for beginners in paracord weaving, and my go-to technique for bag charms and even bag straps!! It might take some practice to don't be discouraged - once you get the hang of it, it's easy and addicting!

You'll Need:

To start, cut lengths of two colors of thick rope - about 18-24" each. Burn the ends simultaneously until the rope starts to melt but doesn't burn or char. Immediately press the ends together. Wait a few seconds before rolling the seam between your fingers. Be sure not to burn yourself! Tug on the rope to make sure you've got a strong fuse.

Fold the rope in half. Cross the left (rope A) over the right (rope B). Then wrap it behind rope B, creating a loop.

Take rope B and bring it around the back of rope A and wrap it around to the front.

Insert the end into rope A loop.

It should look like a loose pretzel-like knot. Pull both rope ends to tighten the knot evenly. This creates the first snake knot.

Screenshot

Now rotate the knot so that the loop is pointed towards you. With your index finger under the knot (keep your finger there!!), loosen rope A from the knot.

With your index finger still under the knot, take rope B and wrap it under your index finger.

Then, bring it around and over, through the rope A loop.

Pull rope A until tight, Now release your index finger and turn the knot over.

You should end up with a loop now created by rope B.

Repeat the steps - wrap rope A under your index finger and over and through the rope B loop.

Pull rope B to tighten, release your finger and turn the knot around. Repeat.

Screenshot

When you've reached the desired length, simply pull the last knot tight with your finger out of the last knot. Your snake knot is done!

Add a small carabiner to it and attach it to any bag charm or key chain!

tutorial by HonestlyWTF, AGJ x HWTF Knotty Rope Kits available here

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4 Comments

  1. mrcowork wrote:
    9.20.25
    Reply
  2. Erone wrote:

    WOW, Its soo coool..Amzing

    9.23.25
    Reply
  3. Ash wrote:

    Oh these are absolutely adorable! I’ve just saved this post for my teen who has the tools to make snake knots, but had no idea where to begin with them! Thanks for sharing.

    10.18.25
    Reply
  4. Érica wrote:

    Olá, como está? Acho lindo esses artesanatos, pode chamar assim? Tenho verdadeira fascinação por coisas que exige atenção e uma boa prática manual, muito bom, grande abraço.

    11.5.25
    Reply