Knot

A knot is a method for fastening or securing linear material such as rope by tying or interweaving. more...

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 knot theory.

Usage

Some knots are well adapted to bind to particular objects such as another rope, cleat, ring, stake or to constrict an object. Decorative knots usually bind to themselves to produce attractive patterns.

Knots are essential in many industrial, work, home or recreational activities. 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 spelunker from foolishly becoming buried under millions of tons of rock. Whatever the activity, on the water sailing or on a cliff-side rock climbing, 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.

In ropework, the frayed end of a rope is held together by a type of knot called a whipping knot.

Many types of textiles use knots to repair damage. Macrame, one kind of textile, is generated exclusively through the use of knotting, instead of 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.

Components

Bight

The center part of a length of rope, string, or yarn (cf knitting and knitting needle) as opposed to the ends. The definition changes depending on whether the definite or indefinite article is used:

• "The bight" is any portion of the rope, string, or yarn between its two ends.
• "A bight" is a U-shaped loop used in making a knot or stitch. Many knots, such as the bowline can be tied in either the end or the bight.

Bitter end

More a ropeworker's term than a knot term, the reference is to the end of a rope that is tied off, hence the expression "to the bitter end". A bitt is a metal block with a crosspin used for tying lines to, found on docks.

Efficiency 

The approximate strength of a rope with a given knot as compared to the rope's strength without the knot, expressed at a percentage. A rope containing a knot is weaker than an unknotted rope, because the loops of the knot impose uneven stresses upon the rope fibers. The tighter the knot, the more uneven the stress.

Elbow 

Two crossing points created by an extra twist in a loop.

Loop 

A full circle formed by passing the working end over itself. Note that the term 'loop' is also used to refer to a category of knots (see 'Categories' below).

Standing end

The end of the rope not involved in making the knot, often shown as unfinished.

Standing part

Section of line between knot and the standing end.

Working end

The active end of a line used in making the knot. May also be called the 'running end' or 'live end'.

Working part

Section of line between knot and the working end.

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