The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Knots and Ropework: Over 200 Tying Techniques with Step-by-Step Photographs

by Geoffrey Budworth

There are several thousand knots in existence and an almost infinite number of variations of these. This reference manual and practical handbook presents over 200 knots, illustrating how to tie them in step-by-step photographs and clear, detailed text.

Genres: Reference, Nonfiction, Crafts, Self Help, How To, Field Guides, Outdoors

256 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1999

About the author

Geoffrey Budworth co-founded the International Guild of Knot Tyers in 1982 and regularly contributes to its quarterly journal, Knotting Matters. He’s been described as “the father of forensic knotting” and occasionally gives evidence in court as an expert witness of knots found at crime scenes. Budworth is a well-known personality and author in the world of knots.

Reviews

[Shayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A direct clone of A Handbook of Knots and Knot Tying: Over 200 Techniques by the same author. Other than the cover, everything about this book is the same: layout, copy, photos.

Still counting it as read.

[Kevin Selzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've quite a collection of knot books, and I would say that this is the best of them. Of course it doesn't have the sheer volume of Ashley's and yes there is that obligatory first chapter about rope strength and different types that will go ignored - we're here for the knots afterall - but even that is quite readable. The book gives a good selection of knots, including both those very useful and those useful for showing off with as they're quite unusual. There's also a key that gives the general uses of the knots and a short history for each entry. And yes, perhaps the most important test, the diagrams and instructions are fairly simple to follow so that you can actually learn from the book. Of course, it is just about always better to learn from someone else as both parties will get more enjoyment that way, but for advanced knotheads as well as those aspiring, this is an essential book in the knot-tying library.

[Blake · Rating 4 out of 5]

This could also be named "The Ultimate Guide to Extreme Geekiness," but it is still a great reference book. Ever wanted to make a pair of twine sandals? Baffled at how to keep that set of 40-lb. dumbbells from rolling around in the bed of your truck? Need a way to keep that kidnapped wildebeest restrained while preserving your living room from destruction? This book is the answer to your prayers. Everyone should own it, and the fact that it is always a tempting find on the Barnes and Nobles bargain rack is a reassuring thought.

[Terry Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our son is in Boy Scouts so this comes in handy. I also learned a few decorative knots so I can say I have truly enjoyed it!

[Michal Paszkiewicz · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent collection of knots, hitches, plaits, lashings and anything else you may want to do with a rope. Many of the knots were new to me and were very interesting in their functions. Tying the knots as I went through the book, I was particularly excited to learn the icycle hitch, which can hold of a verticle spike with a declining side (e.g. an icycle).

However, I was slightly disappointed by the fact that in some of the pictures (which were generally great), it was not clear which end was the working end - I think the ends should be visible and especially not obscured by hands, if possible. I think additional steps/pictures could have also helped in some of the more complex knots, such as the turk head knots.

One last thing that would have made the book better would be if variations of tying some of the knots were shown - e.g. I know a neater way of tying the bowline than shown in the book. Some of the knots were tied by passing both ends through loops, which shouldn't be necessary and doesn't really translate to pragmatic scenarios.

[Philitsa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent resource if you need to know how to tie a carrick bend.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

The best knot book I could find.

[Shane Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fine reference to some very useful knots. There are thousands of knots, but this guide focuses on a relative handful that are the most useful.

The illustrations are beautiful. This book is as much a work of art as it is a reference guide.
While not exactly the "ultimate" in knot books, it is still a worthwhile addition to library.

[Misercord · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won't call it the Ultimate Encyclopedia of Knots. The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Knots would be Ashley Book of Knots by Clifford Ashley. However, this book is glossy and easy on the eyes. It could act as a good coffee table book with actually useful content.

[Ainsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knot for (k)nothing is this book the bees knees of books about knots. How to tie knots with simple, helpful photographs. Tie up your loose ends today!

[Rose]

623.8 Bud

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

for knot lovers everywhere.

[Jim Wilcox · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite knot books. "Ultimate?" No way (only Ashley can make this claim).

More detailed review to follow.

[Kris Minnich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent illustrations for learning or refreshing your knot tying skills. The whole book is colorful and laid out well. A must have for boaters, hikers, and campers.

[Don Gubler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Excellent source of more knots.

[Alastair Lack · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book. Beautifully illustrated.

[Elizabeth]

I need to learn my knots for boating!

[Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. A great book.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the easy to follow instructions and step by step illustrations in this book.

[TK Keanini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knots rock! That is all.

[Jason Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of fun!