Page 116 - Des Pawson "Pocket Guide to Knots & Splices"

Carrick Bend

The design and form of the carrick bend is known all
over the world. As well as being used to join ropes

together, it is the basis of many other decorative knots.
The carrick bend is perhaps the most perfect, beautiful

and symmetrical of bends. When making this bend be
sure that the working ends are opposite one another

and are not too short, as the bend will collapse
when put under strain. It is also easily untied. In
the past this bend was used to join very large

cables, then it was kept flat with the ends seized
to the standing part, so allowing the cable to go

round a capstan or windlass.

Pocket Guide to Knots & Splices