AY Honors/Knot Tying/Answer Key

1. Define the following terms:

a. Bight

The part of the rope or line, between the end and the standing part, on which a knot is formed

b. Running end

The free end of the rope, usually shorter. This is the end of the rope in which a knot is being tied.

c. Standing part

The part of the rope between the Running end and the Standing end (the end that doesn't move, think of it as if someone is holding it)

d. Underhand loop

A loop formed by passing the running end of a line under the standing part.

e. Overhand loop

A loop formed by passing the running end of a line over the standing part.

f. Turn

g. Bend

A bend is used to tie two ropes together, as in the Sheetbend. Technically, even the Reef knot is a bend

h. Hitch

A hitch is used to tie a rope to a spar, ring or post, such as the Clove hitch. Hitches can also be used to tie one rope ONTO another rope, as in the Rolling hitch.

i. Splice

A knot formed by interweaving strands of rope rather than whole lines. More time consuming but usually stronger than simple knots.

j. Whipping

A binding knot used to prevent another line from fray.

2. Know how to care for rope.

• a. Keep the rope clean.
• b. Always coil a rope before storing it.
• c. Make sure wet rope is dry before coiling it.
• d. Return rope to its proper place after using it.

3. Describe the difference between laid rope and braided rope and list three uses of each.

In laid rope, three bundles of fiber or twine are twisted in the same direction, placed close to each other, and allowed to twist together. In braided rope, the fibers are woven together, often around some core material.

Uses of Laid Rope

1. Repels water
2. Able to withstand immense strain.

Uses of Braided Rope

1. Works well with pulleys and rigging.
2. Spinning (lariats and lassos)

4. Identify the following types of rope:

a. Manila

Manila is a type of fiber obtained from the leaves of the abacá (Musa textilis), a relative of the banana. It is mostly used to make ropes and it is one of the most durable of the natural fibers, besides true hemp. Manila is a coarse, brown fiber, about the same color and feel as a coconut shell.

b. Sisal

Sisal is valued for cordage use because of its strength, durability, ability to stretch, affinity for certain dyestuffs, and resistance to deterioration in saltwater. Sisal ropes and twines are widely employed for marine, agricultural (bailing twine), and general industrial use. Sisal fibers are smooth, straight and yellow and can be long or short.

c. Nylon

Nylon rope is often white, but any color is possible. It has a smooth, silky feeling to it, and it coils easily. Nylon rope does not float in water. It is a synthetic-fiber rope.

d. Polypropylene

Polypropylene rope is most often yellow, though any color is possible. It is often used in marine applications because it floats in water. The rope is sometimes difficult to tie as it is somewhat stiff and brittle. It is a synthetic-fiber rope.

The easiest way to make an initial identification of a rope is to visit a hardware store where rope is sold. The packaging will tell you what the rope is made of. If you want to be sure, buy some of each type (with the labeling) or examine it closely in the store.

7. Make a six-foot piece of three-strand twisted rope from native materials or twine.

Adventist Youth Honors Answer Book/Knots/Making rope

8. From memory tie at least 20 of the following knots and know their common uses and limitations. Demonstrate how they are used.

Butterfly loop knot or Alpine butterfly knot

Adventist Youth Honors Answer Book/Knot/Alpine butterfly

References

• List of Knots on Wikipedia

"Why Knot? an introduction to knots, splices & rope" DVD and rope available through AdventSource.org. Every requirement is completely covered by this resource.