A practical guide to knot-tying

WHEN it comes to learning how to tie knots, there are lots of books to choose from, ranging from basic guides to more lavish volumes concentrating on the decorative side to this age-old skill.

The latest to drop through our letterbox does just what it says on the cover: How to Tie Knots. American outdoor survival skills expert Tim MacWelch has compiled a practical guide to tying 50 ‘essential’ knots grouped into five sections: ‘Need to know’; camping and hiking; nautical; climbing and fishing.

In his introduction he points out that many knots were developed by our ancestors and have been passed down through the generations. But while most people know how to tie two or three basic knots, this age-old skill is an indispensable tool with hidden benefits such as increasing hand-eye coordination and building strong fingers, creativity and greater self-reliance.

Each knot is clearly illustrated with step-by-step diagrams, quick tips and uses. Some of the more-well known are covered in the first section such as the half hitch and clove hitch. The nautical section comprises nine knots including the slip knot, cleat hitch and anchor hitch and there are a further nine knots used for fishing with modern tackle.

The author concludes with practical knot projects including weaving a net and bundling a rope as well as sharing tricks for untying knots. He suggests that before resorting to the knife, tools such as a simple corkscrew, canvas needle or tip of an antler can be used to prise knots apart.

This guide includes a glossary of terms and techniques and is handy addition to the boater’s or angler’s bookshelf. For outdoor adventure seekers, there is also a companion title How to Survive in the Wild.

How to Tie Knots by Tim MacWelch is published by Modern Books, an imprint of Elwin Street Productions (144 pages, paperback, £9.99)

ISBN: 978-1-912827-48-0