Page 57 - Peter Randall "The Craft of the Knot.."

Chapter 3

EASY LOOPS

A rope with a loop tied in it is a completely different tool than one
without a loop. The majority of tasks you will ever do with rope or
string can be done or aided by tying a loop in it.

As the most versatile knot you can tie, a loop can function in any
category of knot, including a stopper knot, hitch, part of a bend, and
even as binding or decoration. A loop can be used as a hitch either by

tying and then passing the loop over the end of an object, or by first
passing the end around an object and then tying. Two interlocking loops
can be used to fasten one rope to another, thereby making a reliable
bend.

There are many different loop knots to choose from. You can tie a loop
at the end of a rope or in the middle. It can slide like a noose or be
locked in place, or even have multiple turns.

A locked fixed loop does not slide and keeps its size when strain is
placed on it. Once a locked loop is tied, it can be thrown over a peg or
hook to secure the rope, and then lifted off and used again. If tied for a
handhold or around your waist, it will not close down on you. The
Bowline Loop is probably the most well-known of this form. Some
locked loops are made by splicing a three-stranded rope and using the

strands to tie the loop.
When you need more than one loop, you can tie a knot with multiple

loops. Complexly shaped objects can be hoisted without tilting, and a
single rope can be fastened to multiple anchor points. Loops can even be
different sizes. If you need a large number of custom-sized loops for
hoisting or binding, you can start with a small fixed loop with a large
running end left over. Repeatedly make your loops with the running end,
passing it through the locked loop each time, tying off the last one.

You may need a loop that is adjustable in size. Sliding loops, also
called nooses or slip loops, fill this purpose. Fishermen often want a loop