THE MARLINESPIKE SAILOR
Functional and decorative knots and ropework.
- TIM WHITTEN — JULY 13–19
Marlinespike seamanship skills have been a hallmark of sailing for centuries. From the era of square-rigged merchantmen to modern naval vessels and including all manner of pleasure craft in between, neatly done ropework has been regarded as a sign of a well-kept boat. This course with Tim Whitten is intended to strengthen one’s basic rope skills and introduce students to the extensive world of fancy work.
The Ashley Book of Knots will serve as the text for the course. This comprehensive volume of knots and techniques can sometimes be daunting for the novice. It has hundreds of illustrations, yet like many knot books, leaves many readers wondering how to piece things together to make a finished item. Tim will begin the course by covering simple knots and splices but will quickly move into a more advanced project—making a bell rope. Successful execution of this project requires mastery of several core techniques. Once students complete the bell rope, they will move on to other projects involving those same techniques.
Tim will provide plenty of one-on-one and hands-on instruction. Students will be encouraged to bring items of their own which they may want to dress up with fancy work, such as tillers, steering wheels, tool handles, rail sections, bottles, etc. Examples of other projects students can tackle during the week are a ditty bag and lanyard, deck mat, rope fenders, and sea chest beckets.
Knowledge of marlinespike seamanship is what distinguishes a true seaman from the weekend sailor. Anyone spending any amount of serious time out on the water should be well-versed in knots, palm and needle work, and the making of small objects on board as necessary. This week with Tim Whitten will be a strong first step in that direction.
Tuition: $650
Materials: $150