Illustrated Seamanship
Chapter One
Ropework
This chapter outlines the minimum level of knowledge
of knots and hitches, whipping, splicing,
etc. that you should have in order to make long
passages. Remember that it is better to know a few knots
well than to half-know many.
Take your time to learn these knots so you are able to
tie them quickly. Preferably, you should be able to tie
the knots with one hand and blindfolded! A good basic
knowledge of ropework, knots and hitches may save
both life and gear in dangerous situations.
THE BASICS
Ropes are made of short fibres that are spun into yarns,
which are then made into flat or twisted strands. Finally,
the strands are spun or braided to make the finished
rope (Figure 1.1). The two main types of rope are:
Laid rope: three-strand rope (two- and four-strand
ropes also exist) is made of strands twisted together in
the opposite direction to that of the yarns, normally to
the right (Z-laid), but sometimes to the left (S-laid).
Braided rope is made in ... read full excerpt from Illustrated Seamanship ebook
