Page 20 - Barbara Merry - The Splicing Handbook

Twine doesn’t look like rope, although it is composed of fibers. It is usually
less than 3/16 inch (5 mm) in diameter. Waxed whipping twine is
constructed of nylon or polyester and coated with wax to make whipping
and seizing easier. The wax also protects against weathering.

Marline consists of two strands of hemp, left-laid, and is coated with tar to
protect against weathering, giving it a characteristic burned odor. It can be
used for lashing or seizing.

ROPE CARE

It’s foolish to buy good rope and then treat it carelessly because rope that is
damaged will have a reduced breaking strength and a shorter life. Here are some
ways to preserve the life span of your rope:

To take rope off a storage reel properly, avoiding kinks, twists, or hockles in
the line, let the reel rotate freely around a horizontal pipe suspended or
supported at both ends.

Store rope in a clean, dry area, off the floor, out of sunlight, and away from
acid fumes.
Keep rope from chafing against standing rigging and rough surfaces. Be
wary of rusty or sharp chocks, bitts, and winches that will abrade the rope.
Pulleys and blocks should be correctly sized and should turn freely.

If a rope is chafed or frayed, cut out the damaged portion and splice. A good
splice is safer than a damaged section.
It is not generally necessary to oil or lubricate rope; if you do, use a product