How can I style my hair into a knotted bun?

I have thick hair. I read instructions on one website and it said to use bobby pins, but if I use them I have to use really small pieces of hair because it's thick. I also have problems with it staying up. What are some instructions I can follow, or some tips/tricks that I can use?

How can I style my hair into a knotted bun?

I've noticed my carpool does this-and she has very curly hair, I just have body. Take a thick scruchie and pull your hair into a ponytail. Take another scruchie and pull it over the existing one, except into a bun.

How can I style my hair into a knotted bun?

Braid your hair and twist into a bun.