Handfasting Cords Sewn by Hand

October 6, 2009 at 4:25 pm (Handfasting) (, , , , , , )

  Modern day Handfastings are a revival of an ancient practice. It was originally an engagement period lasting a year, or “a year and a day”, after which the couple decided if they wanted to make it permanent or not. Today’s handfastings are often the actual wedding ceremony. A cord is used to “bind” the couple together by gently wrapping it around the couples clasped hands and possibly tying a loose knot.  I’m guessing this is where the term “tying the knot” came from.

I’ve recently made a few handfasting cords. Some people use simple ribbons or colored cords for this. Others want something more elaborate and decorative for their special day. I’ve seen some beautiful cords out there on the internet.  Ribbons in varying widths, textures and colors entwined together and adorned with charms and beads. Drapery cord decorated and tassled.

I wanted to do something different from the braided ribbons I’ve found, even though they are very lovely. I love sewing by hand so thats what I did.  I made the first one as a gift and I wanted it to be something that had a lot of thought and love put into it. I put  just as much thought and love into each cord that I make and wish each recipient a joyous and satisfying union.

I’ve taken colored cords and stitched ribbon and glass beads on by hand. Added beads or other danglies at the ends for decoration and weight. And, til I run out of them, a carved bone celtic knot at the midline of the cord. They turned out beautifully. I put them in a fabric drawstring bag for safe storage. The ribbon spirals around the entire length of the base cord. I’m thinking of trying it with some narrow lace too and see how that looks.

Each one is different and decorations depend on what I can find locally. Custom pendants could be done at extra cost and wait time if I can find what you need via the internet.

For those of you who aren’t crafty or just don’t have the time I have some listed in my Etsy shop. Click on the photo’s to see my Etsy store. Contact me for custom colors.

Yellow and Brown Handfasting Cord with Turtles

Red and Black Handfasting Cord with Seashell Rings

Red and Cream Handfasting Cord with Seashell Rings at ends.

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