Chinese knots are rich in symbolism, beautiful and can be seen in so many places in China. Here’s some helpful tips for getting the most from your March Box!
铁观音 Tie Guan Yin tea, a traditional Chinese tea, is a green tea and is one of the ten famous Chinese teas. It originated in Xiping Town, Fujian Province and was first discovered in the 1700s. This tea should be stored away from direct sunlight – even in a refrigerator works! For more tips see our guide below:
Your shadow frame comes with a blue Chinese Knot which is ready to be displayed in your home. However, if your family’s attempt to do their own Chinese knot is successful, you can easily switch out this blue knot for your family’s one!
This DIY Chinese knot kit comes with enough thread to make both a ‘4-sided peace’ knot and a ‘4-long roads’ knot. Use the red foam as a base and pin your thread in place as you go and glue the intersections in place when you’re happy with the look. We weren’t able to include the glue you’ll need (as many solvents are limited by customs – and rightly so!) but any glue will work. If you use white glue, you’ll need to use generously and patiently wait for the knot to thoroughly dry before removing the pins. However, if you have a glue gun or super glue, the end result will look sharper.
The 4-Sided Peace Knot is a variation on the traditional Chinese ‘double money’ knot. People believe the shape gives the feeling of beauty and dignity. It symbolises peace in the home and outside. It’s usually hung during celebrations or as a decorative item around the home.
The 4-Long Roads Knot is the most iconic of Chinese knots and the one you’ll see most commonly. In ancient China its shape was considered sacred; without beginning or end. It therefore represents being eternal and unswerving. Chinese people will use these knots at weddings, festivals or at any kind of celebration. Having these knots displayed in the background is thought to add to the atmosphere like many westerner feel Christmas lights add to the atmosphere in our homes in December.
Add the beads and coins however you like!
Instructions for both types of knots are included in the box but here’s an online copy if you need it: