Knots the complete visual guide

Knots have been used throughout history, and they remain a valuable resource today. Learning to tie knots is a handy, enjoyable skill, requiring only simple equipment to get started. This book contains a selection of knots intended to be practical and instructive. Many of them have specific purposes, others are purely decorative, while some can be used for many different tasks; all of them should be reliable and safe if tied correctly. You will find them useful in everyday life as well as in activities such as climbing, sailing, and camping. As with any skill, it is best to begin by learning the basics. Familiarize yourself with the fundamental techniques, the different types of ropes and their uses, and a few technical terms. Experiment with some simple knots before you attempt anything complicated; classic knots such as the Square Knot (see pp.85–86) and the Overhand Knot (see pp.28–29) are both excellent places to begin. When learning to tie new knots, don’t rush— pause regularly to make adjustments as needed and, above all, have fun!

Read the brief description at the start of each chapter to figure out which type of knot you need, then use the icons and text at the beginning of each knot to refine your search. Once you have found the knot you are looking for, follow the step-by-step instructions to learn how it is tied. This book also contains information on rope and tools and the best knots for activities such as sailing and climbing.