December 2012

Mastering marlinespike

Painter’s bowline

Boat painters use this handy bowline variation to support paint cans by quickly forming a loop in the middle of a line. Sailors use it to secure light tackle being carried aloft, because it can be rapidly tied and easily untied.

A. Form an overhand loop in a secured line. Grasp a bight of line 2 feet below the loop and above the bitter end. Go through the paint can handle with the bight, leaving the handle in the lower loop. Take the bight up and behind the upper part of the secured line, down through the original overhand loop and out past the lower formed loop holding the paint can bail.

B. Make sure the bight (X) extends far enough through the overhand loop to prevent slipping.

Original materials used with thanks to Irene Rodriguez and John Bennett

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