The crown knot, in and of itself it has very little use. So why did I go to all of the trouble of creating an instructional drawing and writing this post? The crown knot, along with the soon to be introduced wall knot, is the basis for a number of practical and decorative knots. I have shown the knot tied with three strands but it can be tied in any multiple number of strands. I find that three strands are ideal for learning this knot.
While not very exciting, the crown knot is an important step towards being able to tie a multitude of more complex knots. So take some time and learn this knot.
Greg Merritt
HILLBILLY DAIKU 
I’m a bit flummoxed by this knot. The only way I could set it up was to cut some 550 cord and use 3 core strands to try it. I had trouble keeping it tied afterward without putting tension the free ends (and had trouble working in minature too 🙂 ). What situation can this be used in?
Sounds like you are doing just fine. The crown knot will not stay tight on its own. The important thing is to understand and memorize the configuration. I need to introduce the wall knot next and then I will combine the two to show you a nob knot that can be used as a drawer pull. The crown and wall knots are used in literally hundreds of knots. Hopefully by this weekend I can have the first decorative knot posted. Be patient and I’ll bring it all together as soon as I can.
Greg
this looks like the beginning of a back splice. That’s a way to stop the end of a rope from unraveling without whipping or melting. Clearly, there is a decorative aspect to it.
You are correct John, the crown is indeed the beginning of a back splice as well as being used in numerous decorative knots.
Thanks for commenting.
Greg