What is the difference between the IGKT and the IGKT-NA? That is the most frequently asked question we receive from both our existing members and those who are thinking of joining. To best address most of the confusion, a brief history on how the International
Guild of Knot Tyers – North America was formed might bring some clarity. But let's start with International:
The International Guild of Knot Tyers (IGKT) was officially established in 1982. Two of the founding members of this organization were Des Pawson and Geoffery Budworth.
Following the formation of the International Guild of Knot Tyers, several smaller splinter groups referred to as “Branches” were formed within the U.K. Their membership numbers vary so they became dependent upon the Guild for opportunities to meet and share experience within a collective group. To this end, the IGKT publishes a newsletter and holds a regular annual meeting. These meetings are open to all IGKT members (worldwide) but are mostly attended by residents of the U.K.
Due to its (U.K.) geographic proximity to western Europe and Scandinavia, the IGKT enjoys a close relationship with regards to the opportunity and ability to attend meetings, festivals etc. represented by non-U.K. guild branches.
Although there is a close geographic relationship between the U.K. and Europe, there are some challenges, specifically language related. Recognizing that many do not speak English, the guild has encouraged the formation of autonomous branches. Using as an example, France; IGKT France has a vibrant and large knotting community, its own newsletter and well attended participation in many regional events.
Note:
IGKT is subject to U.K. regulatory oversite whereas IGKT – NA would be subject to U.S. oversite.
Since the inception in 1982, it didn’t take long before North American Knot tyers were joining IGKT. Following the U.K. model, branch locations on the east coast, west coast, Texas, Alaska and Southern Ontario, Canada were established. Unfortunately, most of these branches disappeared. By 2011 the only branches remaining were IGKT – North American Branch (east coast) and the IGKT – Pacific Americas Branch (west coast). Upon further research (2016), it was noted that North America had 324 IGKT members.
The majority of IGKT members’ only link to the parent association was the “Knotting Matters” periodical. Geographic separation prohibited nearly all North American members from attending Annual Membership meetings in the U.K. Notification of knot tying events was scant at best and advertising of knot-related retailers was non-existent. These were just a few of the concerns raised. The main question however, was “
how can we bring together North American Knot Tyers
”?
IGKT – NAB and IGKT – PAB jointly agreed that the best solution was to create a central focal point for all of North America. This organization would be an autonomous body which could reach out to all of North America through their newsletter the Interknot.. Additionally, wel work with members to create local chapters, hold regular meetings and hold annual General Meetings throughout North America. In other words, the primary mandate of IGKT – NA is to provide services, support and information to all of North America
At an annual meeting held in New Bedford Massachusetts (2017), a report was presented and passed that provided for the formation of the International Guild of Knot Tyers – North America. Said organization would be an autonomous entity while still retaining a fraternal relationship with IGKT. (Many of existing IGKT-NA members still hold membership with IGKT)
Since its inception in 2017 the IGKT – NA executive board has worked tirelessly, meeting monthly to chart a future direction for North American knot tyers. We’ve helped and supported annual membership meetings, prepared a constitution and code of conduct, organized a special projects subcommittee, prepared a “new members” package, developed a web site, facebook site and are redefining our newsletter the Interknot. These are just a few of the initiatives to date. There is much to do and we have much more on our plate for 2025.
To learn more about the International Guild of Knot Tyers visit their site.
President
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Treasurer
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Secretary
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Membership
@igktna.org
Interknot Editor
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Webmaster
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