Page 238 - The Complete Rigger’s Apprentice

but most synthetics, the ropes that predominate should be laid in so smoothly that it is indistinguish-
today, are compulsive lay-losers. To combat able from the form strands. It needs to be firmly
this, use a rope “form” equal in length to the seated at each turn, by a twist-and-pull technique
circumference of the finished grommet (Figure that simultaneously tightens its lay and fits it flush
6-43A). This form is gradually replaced by the with the other two strands.
working strand, the length of which is three Now bring the ends of the form together. Each
times the desired circumference plus one foot working strand end will have two form ends next to
extra to tuck with. Even lay-holding rope comes it. Jump across with either working strand and lay
out as a smoother grommet when you use a out the form end that is counterclockwise from the
form. For very soft-laid rope, use school glue, as
described in the Traditional Irony Splice section.

The Rope Grommet
Begin by laying the working strand into the form
while laying one of the form strands out. The middle
of the working strand should end up in the mid-
dle of the form, with everything nicely adjusted
and matched (Figure 6-43B). The working strand

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