Suggested by the real 'rope' twist achieved when the three rings in the rattle are arranged correctly (see previous picture). Note that the 360 degree twist is real in spite of the rings themselves of course being flat - because they are split and re-joined after interlinking you can really get this effect.
Rather liking this I made this candlestick with 3 twisted rings around it and a simple flange below, with a glued on retaining ring above.
This works I think but aesthetically I think I would now go for the 3 twisted rings ending up in a recessed square groove. But seems an interesting component anyway. Any thoughts welcome.
All from (one piece of) ash.