How to Tie A Surgeon’s Knot for Jewelry Making In 5 Easy Steps

Learn how to tie a surgeon’s knot in 3 easy steps with this tutorial. Use this secure knot to fasten various stringing materials for jewelry making projects.

The surgeon’s knot is a surgical knot used to bind suture threads. It’s also one of the more popular knots used for jewelry making.

This knot is a simple modification of the square knot. It requires an additional twist when tying the first half of the knot which makes it incredibly secure. The extra turn in the stringing materials provides more friction and reduces the chances of the cord loosening as you’re tying the second half of the knot. The completed knot is also less likely to untie.

Surgeon’s knots are perfect for slippery materials e.g. elastic cord. When doing bead weaving projects, this is also a good option for adding new thread, depending on the specific technique being used. They are not decorative knots like some others e.g. the lark’s head knot. It’s best to position them where they can be hidden inside beadwork or pulled into a bead.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for how to tie a surgeon’s knot.

How to Tie A Surgeon’s Knot

Step 1

Cross the left end of the cord over the right end and wrap it under the cord on the bottom. Pull it through the loop in the middle, just like you would when making a simple overhand knot.

Twist the same end of the cord over and around the other end of the cord one more time to create a double wrap. This double twist is what contributes to the security of the surgeon’s knot.

Step 2

To complete the second half of the knot, bring the right side of the cord up over the left side of the cord. Then, wrap it around the cord and pull it through the middle of the loop. (Again, this is just like you were tying an overhand knot).

Pull each side of the cord simultaneously to tighten the knot. You can apply some jewelry glue to make this knot even more secure.

Now you know how to tie a surgeon’s knot in 3 simple steps.