Top Tip - Knots and splicing. Do you know a hitch from a bend?

Written by Tim Heath 

I’m not sure if this is a sailing tip or a confession. Probably both. While learning to sail I have developed an interest, ok a bit of an obsession, with learning how to tie knots and splice ropes. I find myself practising them when daydreaming or watching Netflix?! In the process of furnishing my habit, I have come a across a couple of cheap, excellent e-resources that I think would be useful to normal people who sail dinghies:

1. Animated Knots (by Grog) is a phone app which costs $8 and is a pretty comprehensive compendium of knot videos, including notes on usage, and pros and cons for each knot. There are also splicing videos. You can watch some of them online but this app stores them all offline on your smartphone.

2. Rope splicing (Premium Ropes). If you're unfortunate enough to get hooked on splicing, then this is an invaluable resource, showing techniques for splicing almost every type of modern rope you might come across. The online videos are free and can be viewed HERE. I don't think the app is worth it (doesn't include videos).

If there are any other closet knotters, or if anyone has a favourite knot and like me is shameless enough to admit it, then maybe you could share? Also, I would be interested on recommendations from our more experienced Laser sailors regarding their preferred control lines and sheets. Although cordage is another whole area for potential discovery / obsession...  Maybe I should get counselling, a life, and just call BoatRopes.com.au

Editor’s note - Keep those Top Tips and questions coming! You can email them HERE.