Knot: Difference between revisions

A '''knot''' is a method for fastening or securing linear material such as [[rope]] by tying or interweaving.  It may consist of a length of one or more segments of rope, string, [[webbing]], [[twine]], [[strap]] or even chain interwoven so as to create in the line the ability to bind to itself or to some other object - the "load".  Knots have been the subject of interest both for their ancient origins, common use, and the mathematical implications of

The number of books, websites, videos, and other resources available to those interested in learning about knots is a testament to the value they hold for humankind.  While some people possess an innate ability to look at a diagram or photo and tie the illustrated knot, for others the initial stages of learning are best accomplished by being shown knot tying methods by a person who already knows them.  Knot tying skills are often transmitted by [[sailor]]s, [[Scouting|scouts]], [[climbing|climbers]], [[caving|cavers]], arborists, [[Firefighter#Rescue|rescue professionals]], [[fishermen]], and [[surgeons]]. After mastering a few basic knots, the diagrams and photos become easier to interpret and use to continue the learning process.  As more knots are learned, patterns begin to become evident in their structure and methods of tying.  The learning of knots rewards practice and patience.

Knots are essential in many industrial, occupational, recreational, and domestic settings. Even simple activities such as running a load from the hardware store to home can result in disaster if a clumsy twist in a cord passes for a knot.  Truckers needing to tie down a load may use a [[trucker's hitch]], gaining [[mechanical advantage]]. Knots can save the [[spelunking|spelunker]] from foolishly becoming buried under millions of tons of rock. Whatever the activity, such as [[sailing]] on the water or [[climbing]] on a cliff-side rock, learning well-tested knots prior to some hazardous activity introduces a critical measure of safety. In addition to safety, appropriate knots can prevent the necessity of cutting lines.

Knots can be applied in combination to produce complex objects such as [[lanyard]]s and [[Net|netting]].  In [[ropework]], the frayed end of a rope is held together by a type of knot called a [[whipping knot]].  Many types of [[textile]]s use knots to repair damage. [[Macrame]], one kind of textile, is generated exclusively through the use of knotting, instead of [[knitting|knits]], crochets, weaves or felting.  Macrame can produce self-supporting three dimensional textile structures, as well as flat work, and is often used ornamentally or decoratively.

results of a knot efficiency test: the type of [[fiber]], the [[Rope#Styles of rope construction|style of

The tension from the load causes the rope to work back through the knot in the direction of the load.  If this continues far enough the working end will pass into the knot and the knot will unravel and fail.  This behavior in knots can be worsened when the knot is repeatedly strained and let slack, dragged over rough terrain, or subject to repeated impacts such as against a [[mast]] or [[flagpole]].  Even with secure knots some slippage may occur as the knot is first put under real tension.  This can be dealt with by leaving plenty of rope at the working end outside of the knot and by dressing the knot cleanly and tightening it as fully as possible before loading.  In some cases the use of a [[stopper (knot)|stopper knot]] or, even better, a [[backup knot]] can prevent the working end from passing through the knot, but it is generally better to use a more secure knot if one is observed to slip.  In life critical uses backup knots are often added to already secure knots in order to maximize safety.

;[[Coil]] :Knots used to tie up lines for storage. [[List of coil knots]].

;[[Seizing]] :A knot used to hold two lines or two parts of the same line together. [[List of seizing knots]].

*John Cassidy (1985). ''The Klutz Book of Knots''. Klutz Press, [[Palo Alto, California]]. ISBN 0-932592-10-4