KNOT TYING:
Introduction:
Knowledge in knot tying is one of the important aspects in Pathfindering and in scouting. It is even one of the requirements in the different classes of Pathfindering (Friend to Guide). With the presence of threads, strings, cords, lines and ropes, it is but important to know how to tie a knot and what kind of knot should be used in different circumstances when using any of the said cordage. Knowledge of these knots is also important for its safety use and in the formation of ornamental projects.
Ropes are mainly classified into two based on the type of fibers they made of:
I. Natural fibers from the bast fibers of plants.
a. Cotton rope - made from cotton
b. Hemp - made from cannabis sativa
c. Jute - made from jute plant
d. Sisal rope - made from leaf fibers of cactus-like agave
e. Manila rope - made from leaf fibers of abaca or wild banana plant.
f. Coir - made from coconut fibers
II. Manmade fibers used in rope production:
a. Polyamides (such as nylon or perlon) - they are very fine white fibers. Nylon in particular is the strongest rope when dry. However, it loses some strenght when wet. Characteristically, it does not float and has good elasticity.
b. Polyester fibers includes terylene, vectran and dacron, which also consist of fine white fibers which are formed into stranded and braided ropes.
c. Polypropylene materials are mainly used to make replica natural fibers and the general-purpose rope. Polypropylene ropes float in water.
d. Polyethylene fibers are white or colored coarse fibers which are made into polyethelene ropes. They are light weight and can float with total resistance to water making them popular in sea fishing.
Terminology:
1. Bend - joining together two lines or ropes.
2. Bight - the slack part of a rope anywhere between its two ends.
3. Hitch - to attach a rope or line to a pole, a ring, a hook, or even to another rope.
4. Overhand loop - loop formed by passing the running end of a rope over its standing part.
5. Running end - that end part of a rope which is actively used in twisting and turning to form a knot.
6. Splice - joining together the ends of two ropes or the end of a rope to its standing part by weaving its strands.
7. Standing part - the area of the rope following the running end or that part of a rope which is passively used in the formation of a knot.
8. Turn - a 360-degree direction made by a rope around an object or when coiled.
9. Underhand loop - loop formed by passing the running end of a rope under its standing part.
10. Whipping - tightly wrapping a small thead around the end of a rope to prevent it from unlaying and fraying.
