Page 14 - Randy Penn "Everything Knots Book : Step-By-Step Instructions for Tying Any Knot"

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Introduction

KNOT TYING IS A PURSUIT that can change from intimidating to
entertaining with just a little effort. This book is designed to make
that effort both enjoyable and educational. To learn about knotting
is to learn how humankind fashioned a handhold on its environ-
ment since before recorded history and how this remains impor-
tant today as new types of ropes are created and people continue
to experiment with the best knots to tame them with.
This book features knots and related skills that will have you
taming your environment to suit your needs—be they for practical
applications or just for fun. There are no specific reference lists
here telling you which knots you should use for camping and
which you should use for sailing, for example. Instead, you will
have the opportunity to learn the basic concepts of using knots as
tools, leading you chapter by chapter through various types of
knots. If this book were about hand tools, it would not emphasize
which tools to use on a car and which to use on a washing
machine, but would teach the basic principles behind their use. It
might cover how to tell when a wrench or spanner might be better
to use than pliers, and vice versa. There would also be advice on
how to make do with another tool that may not be meant for the
job. Knowledge like this would enable you to make your own
choice about what tool to use in a variety of circumstances.
Knots are the tools for using rope. With a little practice and expe-
rience with knots, a piece of rope becomes much more than just a
line—it becomes the equivalent of an entire toolbox of possibilities.
The chapters on knots are categorized by function. They
include stopper knots for the ends of rope, knots for joining ropes
together, making loops, fastening ropes to objects, binding objects,
knots for decoration, and knots for specific activities. Additional

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