The Eternal Knot -with Kirsten

It's so exciting when there is a new stencil release and the Tibet Series is stunning! 

For my project I chose to use the Eternal Knot stencil. (It's also called the Endless Knot) Here is an excellent explanation from the Sivana East website:

An intricate pattern of interlacing lines and never-ending loops, the eternal knot is nothing short of eye catching and deeply intriguing. Though found mostly in Tibetan Buddhist culture, the Endless Knot can also be found in Chinese and Chinese-inspired art, and can even be seen in Celtic culture.

Without beginning or end, the endless knot is an intricate design of looped intertwined lines that weave in and out of each other to form a beautiful lattice pattern.

The origin of this ancient symbol is thought to be the icon of snakes- a symbol of duality in many cultures.

Buddhism focuses heavily on the idea of duality and finding the balance between the feminine and masculine qualities in life. This gives a balanced perspective that allows the practitioner to let go of challenging situations, and to see the opposing side of arguments in a new light. This lets go of attachment and hatred, resulting in a closer path to enlightenment.

With all the twists and turns in the knot, it clearly illustrates the interconnectedness of all beings on the planet. This makes the sacred knot take on the symbolism of not just duality, but the perfect representation of unity in the universe.

At its heart, the endless knot inspires one to ponder the connectivity of opposites.

As The Dhammapada reads:

This is why the endless knot can be found everywhere in Tibetan Buddhism- to remind us of the interconnectedness of all beings in space and time.

Isn't that inspiring? 

I wanted to make a simple pendant banner so clearly display this beautiful symbol. 

Here is what I used:

• Canvas (dyed with Dina Wakley acrylic paint and cut to 6x9 inches)
• Eternal Knot Stencil (from the Tibet Series)
• Infra Stencil (from the Quasicrystals Series)
• Ripples Stencil (from the Water Series)
• Dina Wakley Acrylic Paints
• Turquoise Embroidery thread and needle
• Wooden Dowel

Use the Infra and Ripples stencils to create texture onto the painted canvas and your background is ready! Take the Eternal knot stencil and transfer the design onto the center of the canvas. The stenciled lines from the pattern will guide your stitching and use the turquoise thread to sew a back-stitch along the design. Paint the space inside the thread lines with white paint to highlight the knot design. 

Create a loop at the top of the canvas by folding the fabric over the dowel and gluing the edge down. Using your choice of cord or thread take a length and tie each end onto the dowel to create a way to hang the banner.

This leaves room for so much more embellishment and personalization. Want to add beads? Handwritten words? Go and do it! I hope you are able to create something beautiful this week and find inspiration from the new Tibet Stencils!

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