The Basics of Cord and Knot Magic

I'm a firm believer that magical tools do not have to cost you a bundle. You can buy really expensive ribbon or cording or use what you have on hand including string, yarn, etc. Just make sure that it has not been used for another purpose in order to make it as energetically clean as possible.

For this spell, you will need a length of cord or ribbon. This can be any length you choose. Some traditional measurements used in inches are 9 and 13. I prefer mine a little longer as I find it easier to work with.

Hold the cord in your hands and concentrate on your desire as if it has already become manifest. Do this for as long as you can. Begin to tie the knots in the pattern below while reciting these words:

Cord Spell*

By this knot of one
The spell has begun.
By this knot of two
It comes true.
By this knot of three
It must be.
By this knot of four
It's empowered more.
By this knot of five
The power thrives.
By this knot of six
This spell I fix.
By this knot of seven
'Tis manna from heaven.
By this knot of eight
It is my fate.
By this knot of nine
My desire is mine.

This has bound your energy into the cord. There are several ways to finish this spell. You can untie each knot for nine consecutive days in the order you tied them and dispose of the cord. I have also buried cords, burned them, or cut each knot stating words affirming my trust that the spell has worked.

Folk magic or granny magic as it is sometimes called is meant to be adapted to each practitioner. You can vary this spell as you see fit or change it completely. I have used three cords and chanted or affirmed my intention while braiding them together. This repetition of movement and sound helps to cement the magic in your mind even more. Also add incense, candles, aromatherapy, etc. if that helps you create an atmosphere in which to focus.

You don't need to use knots at all. Instead, you can make a sort of memory bracelet to wear out of braided cord. When you feel the spell has done its job, dispose of it as you see fit. All of these techniques can be adapted into a regular circle casting or using any other religious symbolism you wish.

Below are some popular attributions to colors that you can use in cord magic:

• White: Purity, truth, spirituality, peace.


• Black: Stealth, banishing, protection from negativity.


• Red: Strength, passion, courage.


• Blue: Intuition, tranquility, emotion, healing, patience.


• Green: Money, prosperity, fertility.


• Orange: Stimulation, vitality, energy, adaptability.


• Yellow: Mental acuity, intelligence, study, confidence.


• Brown: The earth, home, stability.


• Gray: Neutrality, cancellation, walking between two worlds.

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Opening photo: scol22, sxc.hu.

*Poem adapted from The Spell of the Cord by Doreen Valiente in Witchcraft for Tomorrow, Phoenix Publishing Inc., 1978.