October 2010

Mastering marlinespike

Eye splice (laid rope)

The strongest, most attractive way to install a loop at the end of a line, an eye splice forms a permanent loop in the end of laid rope.

To fit an ordinary cleat or bitt, eye splices are usually 12 to 14 inches long, but they can be made any length.

Razor cut a suitable length of three-strand nylon line. Prepare the strands with masking tape twisted to a point. Unlay the line about 10 to 12 inches, leaving the center strand on top.

Make five sets of tucks (A, B, C), shown completed in figure D.

A. Make the eye loop the desired length on each leg, and tuck the center strand under the topmost strand of the working part.

B. Tuck the left strand under the left working part strand and tighten the lay.

C. Turn over the loop to see the remaining working part strand. Tuck the third end beneath it, going from right to left.

D. The five sets of tucks

E. For decoration, finish the splice with a wall and crown knot.

Continue building your marlinespike skills by taking the Knots, Bends and Hitches seminar. Find a seminar near you or purchase the USPS guide Knots, Bends and Hitches for Mariners. Call 888-367-8777 ext. 0 for more information.

Original materials used with thanks to Irene Rodriguez and John Bennett