Balthus knot instructions. Source: menswearonline.co.uk

Key Takeaways

• The Balthus knot, the largest of all tie knots, creates a bold, symmetrical cone and pairs best with wide-collared shirts for a commanding presence at formal events.
• To achieve the perfect length, start with the wide end of the tie positioned significantly lower than the narrow end. Scroll down for Tie Doctor’s detailed guide on mastering the Balthus tie knot.

About Balthus Knot

The Balthus knot, created by French-Polish artist Balthasar Klossowski in the 1930s, is renowned as the biggest tie knot, surpassing even the Windsor knot. When tied correctly, it forms a bold, symmetrical cone shape. Due to the multiple wraps of the wide end around the narrow end, the tie’s final length is shorter than usual.

Balthus knot. Source: heaphys.co.uk

This big knot tie is perfect for showcasing your beautifully patterned tie, but it requires an extra-long tie—at least 61 inches (155 cm)—to ensure it reaches your belt buckle. For best results, pair it with wide-collared shirts to prevent overcrowding your neck.

Extra-long tie by Tie Doctor

The Balthus tie knot is ideal for occasions where you want to make a strong impression, such as speeches, formal dinners, theatre and art events, or any formal setting where confidence is key.

Instructions for Making Balthus Knot with Pictures

10 Steps to tie a Balthus knot. Source: tie-a-tie.net

These instructions assume you are right-handed and should follow while looking in a mirror, as the images below are mirror reflections. Here we go:

Steps 1 and 2. Source: tie-a-tie.net

1. Place the tie around your neck with the stitching facing outward. Let the wide end hang about 14 inches (35 cm) longer than the narrow end. Then, cross the narrow end over the wide end.

2. Pull the wide end up through the gap between your collar and tie.

Steps 3 and 4. Source: tie-a-tie.net

3. Bring the wide end down on the opposite side of the narrow end.

4. Pull the wide end up through the gap between your collar and tie, but this time, on the opposite side from Step 2.

Steps 5 and 6. Source: tie-a-tie.net

5. Bring the wide end down on the opposite side of the narrow end again.

6. Pull the wide end up through the gap between your collar and tie, repeating the earlier steps.

Steps 7 and 8. Source: tie-a-tie.net

7. To create the loop and tighten the knot, wrap the wide end around the narrow end.

8. Pull the wide end through the gap between your collar and shirt. Wait to tighten.

Steps 9 and 10. Source: tie-a-tie.net

9. Slide the wide end through the loop on top of the knot and slowly pull it tight.

10. Adjust the knot and centre it on your collar. Congratulations on mastering this intricate knot!

For a flawless Balthus knot, start with the wide end hanging low; otherwise, your tie might be too short. Experiment with various tie patterns to make your knot stand out as intended. Discover our collection of 2,500 handcrafted ties, made from the finest fabrics sourced from Macclesfield, UK, available in various patterns, colours, and sizes.

Step-by-Step Balthus Knot Instructions

Here's a detailed guide on tying a Balthus knot:

Step 1: Drape the tie: Place it around your neck with its seam facing out. The wide end is on your right, and the narrow end is on your left. Ensure the wide end is significantly lower than the narrow end.

Step 2: Initial cross: Cross the wide end under the narrow end, moving it to the left.

Step 3: First pass: Bring the wide end up and through the neck loop.

Step 4: Second pass: Pass the wide end down through the loop and to the right.

Step 5: Third pass: Bring the wide end up and through the neck loop again.

Step 6: Fourth pass: Pass the wide end down through the loop and to the left.

Step 7: Fifth pass: Bring the wide end up and through the neck loop again.

Step 8: Sixth pass: Pass the wide end down through the loop and to the left.

Step 9: Cross over: Cross the wide end over the knot, moving it to the left.

Step 10: Underneath pass: Bring the wide end up through the neck loop from underneath.

Step 11: Final pass: Pass the wide end down through the loop at the front of the knot.

Step 12: Tighten and adjust: Pull down on the narrow end to tighten the knot. Slide the knot upwards towards your neck for a neat finish.

The Balthus knot requires patience. Don't be discouraged if it doesn't look perfect at first. By following these steps and practising regularly, you'll be able to master the art of tying the Balthus knot.