In the world of Chanoyu, there are many different schools of tea, each with its own unique way of doing things—including how knots are tied. No single method is the "right" way to tie a shifuku knot. Various utensils like chaire, chawan, and natsume each have specific knot styles that vary between schools. There are also different knots for short or long cords, knots that indicate whether a tea caddy is full or empty, resting knots for storage, and even secret or level-specific knots. In some incense schools, the knot changes monthly!

 

I tie my knots following my school’s teachings but with my own artistic touch. This allows me to showcase the handmade himo cord and to distinguish my work when it’s displayed or photographed. When using one of my shifuku, please tie with the knotting technique specific to your tea or incense tradition.