Example of panel with knotwork, by Dave Edwards, 1985.
Knotwork is the interlacing of one or more bands, straps, or threads, in such a way as to create a decorative effect. It was a popular decorative style in sixteenth century Europe and was used for architectural features, paintings, pottery, as well as textiles, including decorative needlework. It is still sometimes used.
There is a portrait of Bess of Hardwick, for example, that depicts her sleeves as being decorated with knotwork in redwork embroidery. Knotwork is closely related to, but not identical to Celtic knotwork, which has been a popular form of design in the Celtic countries and elsewhere since the early medieval period.
See also the TRC Needles entry on strapwork.
Digital source of illustration (retrieved 6th July 2016).
GVE
