Page 106 - Barbara Merry - The Splicing Handbook

TEN
Eight-Plait Rope

This rope is laid with eight strands that are worked in pairs for splice strength
and appearance. Available in nylon, polyester, and Spectra, this is an inexpensive
construction that resists twisting and hockling and, therefore, finds favor for
commercial uses. I see a lot of eight-plait line on tugboats. Because the picks
have a larger surface area for abrasion, however, it doesn’t wear as well as
double-braid.

If the manufacturer has not color-differentiated the two right-laid pairs from
the two left-laid pairs, mark either pair with a pen to simplify the splicing
process. (Directions are given with each splice for the length of rope to mark.)
EYE SPLICE

TOOLS & MATERIALS

Eight-plait rope
Swedish fid
Vinyl tape
Scissors or sharp knife
Hot knife or heat source
Marking pen