Page 131 - Derek E. Avery - The new encyclopedia of knots

executed, is that it retains the diameter of the rope, thus allowing the

rope to continue to run through existing blocks and eyes.

Begin by unlaying the strands of both ropes for a distance of about
twelve turns, and then position the ends of the ropes opposite to each
other and touching. Arrange the strands from the left-hand end to
alternate with those of the right-hand end. Now unlay one strand from
each rope a further turn and replace it in the rope with its opposite
number from the other rope. Continue doing this for a further five turns.
(Figure 87.1 shows the total extent of the unlaying for clarity, but you

should fill the space left by the unlaid strand, after each turn, by its
opposite number).

figure 87.1

When complete, the finished result will look like a continuous piece of
rope, with three pairs of strands along the rope. These must now be
knotted together by means of a thumb knot (see page 171) (figure 87.2,

centre). Cut the ends to equal lengths (figure 87.2, left) and halve them by
reducing the number of yarns, before tucking them against the lay (figure
87.2, right).

figure 87.2

Loop: a bend in the rope where its standing parts come together or cross;
also called a bight or an eye.

Loose lay see soft lay.