Craft Story

Pankou is a traditional Chinese knot-button craft with a history of over 2000 years. Originally created as functional fastenings in garments, the technique gradually evolved into decorative elements in traditional dress such as the cheongsam.

Today, Pankou is increasingly recognised not only as a garment fastening but as a form of textile art.  The craft is also applied in contemporary accessories including brooches and earrings, allowing this heritage technique to take on new artistic forms.

Pankou is recognised as a form of craftsmanship that brings together textile art, design and symbolism.

Workshop Experience

In this workshop, participants will explore the craftsmanship behind Pankou and create their own handcrafted knot accessory.

The traditional process of making Pankou involves three stages. The workshop will begin with a demonstration of how fabric is prepared and shaped into a cord used to form the knot structure.

Participants will then focus on constructing the knot itself. A single cord is carefully coiled into shape and secured through hand stitching, forming the structure of the design.

Finally, the piece is filled, decorated and finished, transforming the knot into a wearable accessory.

What You Will Make

Each participant will complete a Pawo nkou brooch or decorative knot accessory to take home.