The art of tying decorative knots is known as Macramé. It's done by hand, without needles, by weaving threads or cords together into simple or intricate, knots. Macramé is a French word that means knot; it is one of the oldest forms of art. 

 

The origin of Macramé is generally attributed to Arabic weavers during the 13th century, using decorative knots to finish the loose ends of hand-woven textiles. However, decorative knot-tying can also be traced back to third-century China on ceremonial textiles as well as wall hangings.