Page 260 - Randy Penn Everything Knots Book

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TEACHING KNOT TYING

this subject. Some projects make objects to decorate scout troop
meeting rooms or yacht club lobbies. Even a simple rope mat can
add a bit of nautical flair to a room (see Chapter 10).
Some projects—like knot boards—can serve as educational
exhibits. A knot board is easily made with a small piece of ply-
wood, a staple gun to fasten completed knots to it, and some
labels. A labeled knot board is a common decoration for scout
troop meeting places and boating clubs. Some are very elaborately
decorated, with braiding for the borders, and maybe a nautical
painting featured in the middle.

FACT

Scout troops on pioneer outings often fashion large structures
using lashings as the principal construction method. The Boy
Scouts of America publish a pioneering pamphlet that teaches
rope skills and ideas for many construction projects, including
bridges, towers, ladders, and more.

Making a Grommet, as shown in Chapter 10, is a good small
project to help people become familiar with the structure of three-
strand rope. Demonstrating rope making is a good activity to do
with a group of people because a number of people can be
involved at one time. Instructions for rope making can be found in
many books as well as online.
The techniques and recommendations in this chapter can be
followed closely or can just be used as a guide to lead you to ideas
of your own. Teaching knot tying can be a learning experience in
itself, and a lot of fun at that. A little extra effort goes a long way,
but whatever you do, students will appreciate your efforts and
greatly benefit from them.

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