Whether you’re securing your boat to a ring, tying dock lines, or simply hanging up a new clothesline, any cottager should have a handle on tying the most commonly used knots. Learn the ropes with our handy guide to making good knots.
Tips for making good knots
1. Material matters
Some ropes are better suited to certain tasks than others. You can still find natural fibre rope, such as Manila or cotton, but it will rot if frequently wet. For most cottage uses, synthetics, such as double-braided polyester, nylon, or polypropylene are better. Nylon is relatively stretchy and ideal for dock lines and anchors; the rope takes the strain of a sudden pull.
2. Polyester vs. polypropylene?
Double-braided polyester rope is strong, durable, and holds knots well; it’s good for lashing a canoe to a car or for the lines of your sailboat. Polypropylene is only slightly more stretchy and cheaper, but it breaks down in sunlight and can fail. It’s also slippery, with a tendency to let loose knots. Never use it for dock lines, anchors, or hoisting heavy objects. On the other hand, it floats, making it ideal for waterski tow ropes. Always store it out of the sun.
3. Storing synthetic rope
Keep synthetic rope clean and free of knots, both of which can damage its fibres and significantly reduce it’s working load. If you get a knot, work it out before it becomes too tight. Dirt can also break a rope down; put it in a bucket of warm, soapy water once a year, then rinse and air dry. Don’t store wet; mildew makes it vile to touch and smell. Always coil and hang rope when not in use.
This article was originally published in the March/April 2024 issue of Cottage Life.
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