Handbook of Knots

by Des Pawson

Learn how to tie more than 100 knots using clear instructions and annotated, step-by-step photographs.

Choose knots for fishing, camping, sailing, climbing, and general or decorative use with the help of quick-reference symbols.

Select the correct rope for the job by assessing the different types of rope and their functions and breaking loads.

Genres: Reference, Nonfiction, Crafts, Survival, Education, Maritime

160 pages, Paperback

First published March 15, 1998

Reviews

[Bartholomu Jangles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great format

[Carl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each knot is well-described with images and a historical/functional flavour text. It stresses on how to use each knot in a situation and categorises them. I think everything you need to know about knots is in this book.
Some of them are instructed overcomplicated, which may be confusing.

[John Greenbank · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am now a knot enthusiast.

[Indah Threez Lestari · Rating 3 out of 5]

502 - 2019

[Caro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fair warning: I didn't get to read all of this book, but I didn't get most of it. (Library book) I liked the beginning and the explanations of the ropes and and such. The pictures were great (love pics with how-to's)! The instructions were pretty good. I was able to understand or get the drift of almost all of it, and what I didn't get I understood from the picture. I liked the little info paragraph that was written for each type of knot too. It was a little intriguing to see why or where a knot was formed. Like the Thief Knot. :) I'm most likely going to check this book out again to finish and would do so again for reference. I liked how there were some that were for decorations too. The looked pretty cool. Fun and new and something to do with your hands. Enjoy!

[Michael Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply the most valuable illustrated guide to knot craft available for the contemporary Reader. Taking one through a logical progression of simple to more complex knots, with superb, clear and easy to follow photographs and directions. Handbook includes an organizational system for various families of knots, which integrate skills and technique by intended use, and helps the knot workman to reinforce complimentary skills.

Invaluable, education, and flawlessly executed.

Standard disclaimer: Handbook of Knots was purchased by the Reviewer. I have received no compensation or consideration for this review, and offer it as my opinion only.

[Aurora65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's in the children's section of the library. It's too fun for adults too. All the knots you though you should have learned in scouting, and so many more, are easily explained with color photographs.

The sub-title says it succinctly;
A step by Step Guide to Tying and Using More Than 100 Knots.

My favorite is the Matthew Walker knot. Get the book and read the story about why the knot bears his name.

[J.G. Keely · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful illustrations, variation knots, decorative knots, a little history here and there. Not much more you could ask for in a knot book. Not an analysis of knot history and theory so much as a functional reference, but that certainly doesn't distract from the conciseness.

[Cayenne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource. I wanted a book that had both decorative and useful knots with good illustrations. I have yet to really sit and try all the knots, but I still plan to and the read through was very interesting.

[Tyler Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm dense and I have no spatial acuity to speak of. And even I can tie a lot of these knots with a little practice. This book is exactly what it needs to be. It is clear, well illustrated, step-by-step, and appealing.

[John Buchanan · Rating 3 out of 5]

You don't need 6-8 years of whaling experience to get comfortable with how the the knots are explained.

[Bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Typical DK book. Excellent layout, visuals, explanations & history. Great book. Near-perfect basic reference.

[Terra Wolski · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this book and I love the size ... Now to get a dowel and a ring to practice! Can't wait to put more to use! :)

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Handy reference! Trying to memorize all of these with the kids in our homeschool! ;)