Adjustable-Length Sliding Knot Necklace: Barrel Knot Edition

On investigating how to make an adjustable-length sliding knot necklace, I have come across 4 different versions of knots to use. There may be more. As I become aware of them, I will add links here. However, here are the versions of which I am aware.

1. What I'm calling the easiest knot
2. What I'm calling the loop knot
3. What is called the barrel knot (this tutorial)
4. I'm still trying to find the fourth one, but that is more of a macrame knot

Below are the instructions for the barrel knot.

For equipment, you will need:

1. A tape measure. While I do have measurements on my cutting board, this is to measure the size of your head.
2. Something to cut with, like a pair of scissors. I bought some Singer scissors that don't work on fabric, so I've repurposed them for this task.
3. A Philips-head screwdriver. I got mine as a part of a 4-piece set at Dollar Tree. Now, it doesn't have to be a screwdriver. You just need something round and wider than your cord to help create the barrel.

For supplies, you will need:

1. A cord. I am using a 2mm leather cord. I have seen instructions for 1.5mm cords, 2mm satin cords, and leather lacing; so it is really up to you want you want to use. Just make sure it will allow the knots to slide (no chains, twine, etc.).

Measure the widest part of your head. This may be from the tip of your nose and around your ears, although it could be any part. You just need to make sure it is the widest part of YOUR head. I apparently need 25½" to get around my nose; the top of my head is only 22¾".

NOTE: This is the MINIMUM length you need for your necklace. By all means, make it longer if you wish. Pick any measurement ABOVE what you get in this step.

Add 9 inches to that measurement. These 9 inches are going to be used up by the barrel knots.

Measure the cord to the length you calculated and cut it at that point.

If your necklace is going to have a charm with a bail, run the cord through the bail. Otherwise, skip this step.

Pick up the screwdriver.

Measure out 4½" of cord. Pinch the cord with your finger and thumb to keep it in place. Bring your "pinch" up to the barrel of the screwdriver.

Bring around the other end of the cord so as to make a loop. You should now have a parallel arrangement of three items: Top is the screwdriver, middle is the loose end, bottom is the loop. From this point on, those are the terms I will use for each of the three levels, respectively.

With your index finger, reach behind the loop to take hold of the loose end. Bring the loose end down behind the loop.

Bring the loose end in front of everything. Wrap it around the screwdriver. Make sure that it includes the loop. Wrap the loose end around everything two more times, ending with the loose end hanging down, as in the picture.

Take hold of the wrapped barrel using your hand opposite the side the screwdriver handle is on. Keeping a little pressure (but not crushing) on the barrel, slide the screwdriver out.

Thread the loose end (NOT the other end of the cord but the loose end you've been using to create the barrel) through the middle of the barrel. I know it is hard to see in the picture, but the loose end is now poking out of the other end of the barrel.

Grabbing the loose end on one side of the knot and the loop (NOT the other end of the cord), pull both cords to tighten the knot. As you can see in the pictures, the barrel may need a little bit of coaxing to make sure the wraps stay together.

You have completed your first knot. Using the other loose end of the cord, repeat steps 5 through 12 to make the second knot.

You now have an adjustable-length cord necklace. If you make it shorter, it could also be an adjustable-length cord bracelet. The next thing I need to do is figure out how to keep the leather cord from coiling up, like it's still on the spool. Figured it out!