Unlike the inline square flower knot (see left), Ashley #588, a rectangular knot is not simply the 1x2 mystic knot (see right) with one end passed through the body of the knot to give a half-hearted extra ear (although it could certainly be done that way). The pass-through occurs earlier and still has no structural support, so the ears still need to be either “closed” or sewn in order that casual handling not destroy the knot.

Let’s make that a definition shall we? A closed ear is an ear loop that is snugged up against the main knot (see left).

I was thinking of defining an “open ear” but then I realized: did I mean a nice loopy type ear or did I mean a loose end kind of ear? Something to contemplate and define after some more considered thought.