Page 95 - Des Pawson "Pocket Guide to Knots & Splices"

Pocket Guide to Knots & Splices

In the days before chain mooring cables—the heavy hemp anchor
cables—were made fast with a series of ropes to ringbolts set in the

deck of the ship. To prevent wear and chafe, these rings were
wrapped with cordage. The outer circumference being greater than
the inner part of the ring, simply wrapping the line would leave

gaps and have a tendency to work loose. By using three strands
and hitching them in alternate directions, this will be

overcome. Carefully done, this gives an outer rim that
has detailing looking like a three-strand sennit

ridge. Sometimes this ringbolt hitching is
called “cockscombing” because of this
detail. Whatever name is used, this is

a fine way to cover any item
that is round and curved at

the same time, be it

ringbolt, eyebolt, or the
handle on a kettle. For the very best

effect ensure that the ridge is straight and
does not roll to one side or the other.

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