Page 286 - Buck Tilton - Outward Bound Ropes, Knots, and Hitches 2 ed.

A KNOT THAT INTERWEAVES THE STRANDS OF A LAID

ROPE TO PREVENT FRAYING

Traditionally, ropes were made of three strands twisted (or
laid) together. When the rope was cut to the required length,

splicing was required to prevent fraying. Being able to back-
splice a rope was considered a basic skill required of all

sailors. Some ropes are made with four strands, but this
same method of back splicing will work with four strands.

Back Splice: Step 1

Begin by interweaving the strands into a knot

known asa crown, as shown in the photograph.
Do this by forminga bight in each strand, then

tucking the end of the adjacent strand through
the bight. Work clockwise around the unraveled

end of the rope.