When I do Bantu knots I always start with hair that is slightly damp, either after washing or after moisturizing. Some people even use shea butter or gel, depending on their hair. I try not to make the knots too small or too large and I make sure to place two or three knots at the crown of my head so my hair doesn't look flat. It definitely takes practice to get a good Bantu knot out. I watched YouTube videos until I got it right.