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The Ashley Book of Knots
This is the definitive book on knots. Here are approximately 3900 different kinds, from simple hitches to “Marlinspike Seamanship.” Mr. Ashley has included almost everything there is to know about them. Precisely named and classified (some new ones for the first time officially), they can be easily found in the big index. He tells when they appeared, something about their history, and what they are good for.
Above all, Mr. Ashley gives explicit directions on how to tie them. He describes each step simply and clearly in the text and has penned right alongside some 7000 drawings to make it still more graphic. This book and a piece of cord will open a new and challenging world of practical adventure to readers of all ages. Mr. Ashley has devoted eleven years to writing this book, and it is based on forty years of looking for, trying out, and thinking up new knots. His drawings abound in humor and the text is full of colorful anecdotes. The Ashley Book of Knots will make a unique and permanent addition to any library.
Above all, Mr. Ashley gives explicit directions on how to tie them. He describes each step simply and clearly in the text and has penned right alongside some 7000 drawings to make it still more graphic. This book and a piece of cord will open a new and challenging world of practical adventure to readers of all ages. Mr. Ashley has devoted eleven years to writing this book, and it is based on forty years of looking for, trying out, and thinking up new knots. His drawings abound in humor and the text is full of colorful anecdotes. The Ashley Book of Knots will make a unique and permanent addition to any library.
619 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1944
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1088 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
March 18, 2011
It would get five stars for the illustrations alone. It adds interest that it identifies dangerous variations of well known knots with a skull and crossbones! I wish more books would do that.
Knot tying is probably in no danger of disappearing, but certainly fewer people are learning to tie them. This book is an ode to mastery; that it is a mastery of an older form doesn't hurt it at all.
It's a book I have kept with me for almost thirty years, one of a handful like it.
It is no longer the last word in knots, now that slippery, brittle materials with incredible tensile strength such as spectra (made of kevlar) exist. With a few exceptions, though, it is encyclopedic.
It also provides a sort of sociological insight into how people worked not so long ago, too, with knots specific to stevedores, teamsters, movers, bakers, fishermen and others who once depended on knots but to a great extent no longer do so.
It's a great book in an old fashioned sense of the word.
Knot tying is probably in no danger of disappearing, but certainly fewer people are learning to tie them. This book is an ode to mastery; that it is a mastery of an older form doesn't hurt it at all.
It's a book I have kept with me for almost thirty years, one of a handful like it.
It is no longer the last word in knots, now that slippery, brittle materials with incredible tensile strength such as spectra (made of kevlar) exist. With a few exceptions, though, it is encyclopedic.
It also provides a sort of sociological insight into how people worked not so long ago, too, with knots specific to stevedores, teamsters, movers, bakers, fishermen and others who once depended on knots but to a great extent no longer do so.
It's a great book in an old fashioned sense of the word.
April 9, 2008
This is by far the most comprehensive book on knots I've ever seen. But it's so much more than just an enyclopedia of knots; it's also a glimpse into the history of their use and utility. I've referred to this beautifully illustrated book many times when looking for just theright way to rig something up in the yard, fastening cargo to the roof of the car, tying my kids to the flagpole... just kidding...
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February 21, 2021I don't know why I don't own this.
Also, I didn't exactly "read" it cover to cover, but it is one fabulous book.
But knot 2545 is missing - it has an entry - "This knot was mislaid." - I have many questions.
Also, I didn't exactly "read" it cover to cover, but it is one fabulous book.
But knot 2545 is missing - it has an entry - "This knot was mislaid." - I have many questions.
September 13, 2013
You don't really read this book; it's a reference work. If you appreciate resourcefulness, art, sailing, camping, flying, needlecraft, knitting, crochet, history, physics, tenacity, dedication, collecting, music, carpentry, or anything really....if you can appreciate a magnificent effort by one person to know, record and share everything there is to know about one thing, you'll appreciate this volume. It is simply the definitive work on knots. Even if you don't like knotcraft, you simply have to get ahold of this book for a few moments just to flip through. You'll be amazed.
February 2, 2009
The "big mamma" of knot books. More a history of different knots and their uses than how to actually tie them. Most other books of knots are based on this.
February 8, 2023
the illustrations are so good. the part where clifford rails against literacy for like making sailors worse at tying knots is so epic. this is like the best book 🪢🪢🪢🪢
February 22, 2017
More knots then the internet, honestly in a decision between referencing the internet or this book, I would look in the book first! The internet has lots of knots and knowledge but it's fragmented and incomplete, you can search for days Or pick up a copy of this book if you have any interest in knot work!
November 16, 2021
This is the go-to reference for knots. It is the book that other books reference. The infamous Square Knot is frequently referred to as ABOK #1402 by other books. Almost any knot of antiquity can be found in this book.
I only give this book four stars because it is (understandably) dated. The book refers exclusively to natural fiber and twisted rope. There is obviously nothing in the book about the synthetic ropes that have come out since it was written, or the knots that were developed to deal with the slipperiness of those ropes. It is also missing one of my favorite bends, the Zeppelin Bend.
Overall this is a great knot book. If you are really into knots like I am and want to view one of the best source books on knots then I highly recommend this book. If you only have a casual or moderate interest in knots you may want to pick a less expensive and less voluminous book.
I only give this book four stars because it is (understandably) dated. The book refers exclusively to natural fiber and twisted rope. There is obviously nothing in the book about the synthetic ropes that have come out since it was written, or the knots that were developed to deal with the slipperiness of those ropes. It is also missing one of my favorite bends, the Zeppelin Bend.
Overall this is a great knot book. If you are really into knots like I am and want to view one of the best source books on knots then I highly recommend this book. If you only have a casual or moderate interest in knots you may want to pick a less expensive and less voluminous book.
February 27, 2019
Clifford W. Ashley was born in 1881 at the whaling port of New Bedford, Massachusetts. He sailed on many kinds of boats in many capacities, from ship's surgeon to interested observer. His ruling passions were marine painting and knot-tying, on which he was one of the world's leading authorities. His paintings are represented in the permanent collection of many American museums and libraries. He spent six weeks on the whaling ship Sunbeam. During the voyage he witnessed the hunt and killing of three whales.
The Ashley Book of Knots is without parallel when it comes to knot tying. Published in 1944, this book is still the number one reference to all things knotting. There are over 7,000 drawings of 3,900 knots and their application in the 619 page knot tyers tome. There is no equal to this reference, bar none. I cannot recommend this book enough to novice knot tyers.
The Ashley Book of Knots is without parallel when it comes to knot tying. Published in 1944, this book is still the number one reference to all things knotting. There are over 7,000 drawings of 3,900 knots and their application in the 619 page knot tyers tome. There is no equal to this reference, bar none. I cannot recommend this book enough to novice knot tyers.
December 20, 2019
The illustrations are easy to follow and beautifully done. This is the definitive reference on the subject and well worth adding to ANY library, public, private, or personal.
The glimpse into the history that goes along with some of the knots adds even more value to the book.
I knew someone who wanted to get her father a special present. He likes sailing. This book hit the spot perfectly.
The glimpse into the history that goes along with some of the knots adds even more value to the book.
I knew someone who wanted to get her father a special present. He likes sailing. This book hit the spot perfectly.
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February 28, 2020i actually read this years ago when i checked it out of the library for my husband. it's funny and informative. I can't find it there now, but i remembered it and thought i would list it here for anyone interested. It's priceless! you just can't find pictures and explanations like this anymore. Why you would need to know almost 4000 knots is beyond me, but hey, it's cool!
October 10, 2023
The edition with the the cover illustration of the sailor on the pier is hilarious if you know what knot he's tying: a handcuff knot. That knot doesn't even appear in the book. There's a reason the cheeky ol' salt is winking at you.
January 30, 2019
A must have book for any serious knot tyer.
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August 1, 2019677.7 A8263 1944
December 11, 2019
A classic and comprehensive book that makes you realize how important knots are to humans yet most people today have lost the skill and knowledge of knots.
October 13, 2020
This is THE book of knots, and almost everyone agrees.
An encyclopedia, but filled with personal notes, stories, and hand sketches by a REAL enthusiast.
An encyclopedia, but filled with personal notes, stories, and hand sketches by a REAL enthusiast.
December 29, 2022
The top book for knotting
September 7, 2023
I thought this book. Was about sailing. It turns out more than that. I never realized knots. Used in daily life. Knots can used in farming, transportation, surgery, construction, art, etc.
January 6, 2025
Very cool book that I’m so stoked to own!
February 6, 2025
The Ashley Book of Knots is without a doubt the most renown book on knot-tying in history. Detailed drawings and explanations (plus a bit of historical background) make this book a must have for every outdoorsman, sailor, or knot enthusiast.
I will note however, that this book is not your usual “step-by-step” book on knots. The pictures of the knots often show them at their final stage as apposed to a step by step process. Instead you will often need to read the matching description for each knot picture to fully understand the process. However, I personally believe that this encourages the reader to “peel back the layers” of tying a knot and truly focus on honing the “muscle memory” aspect of knot tying.
I will note however, that this book is not your usual “step-by-step” book on knots. The pictures of the knots often show them at their final stage as apposed to a step by step process. Instead you will often need to read the matching description for each knot picture to fully understand the process. However, I personally believe that this encourages the reader to “peel back the layers” of tying a knot and truly focus on honing the “muscle memory” aspect of knot tying.
April 8, 2019
I am a knot geek. I adore this book. so many wonderful knots.... It was a birthday present when I was a teenager. Today it is still a present each time I open it.
October 10, 2015
Страшно добра и обширна енциклопедия за възлите и тяхното приложение. Невероятни илюстрации, обяснения, а кратките бележки могат да се четат като художествена литература.
Прочел инструктажи как се правят нат 3800 възела, примки, въжени стълби, декоративни плетки, не съм, това е книга, която да си разгръщаш постоянно.
Рисунките и историята вътре те вкарват в 19 век, когато да можеш да връзваш възли е било изискване за редица професии - моряци(естествено), хамали, обущари, покривари, коминочистачи и много други. А кратката му лична история направо я откраднах за едно разказче, което пиша в момента и ме насочи към книгата по начало.
Искрено препоръчвам, на всичките си пишещи приятели да я погледнат, ако искат да направят някое морско фентъзи да звучи по-достоверно с някаква малка подробност.
Прочел инструктажи как се правят нат 3800 възела, примки, въжени стълби, декоративни плетки, не съм, това е книга, която да си разгръщаш постоянно.
Рисунките и историята вътре те вкарват в 19 век, когато да можеш да връзваш възли е било изискване за редица професии - моряци(естествено), хамали, обущари, покривари, коминочистачи и много други. А кратката му лична история направо я откраднах за едно разказче, което пиша в момента и ме насочи към книгата по начало.
Искрено препоръчвам, на всичките си пишещи приятели да я погледнат, ако искат да направят някое морско фентъзи да звучи по-достоверно с някаква малка подробност.
April 6, 2015
I could not "read" this book. It is just too much. Guide to every type of knot--or should I say, "Every Way to use Rope and String known to Man,"? It is awesome both in it's undertaking, and in it's completion. It succeeds so well, it is staggering to read. Just let me say, I picked this one up out of curousity at the library, started browsing through it, and kept browsing for the next two days. Could have gone on for two years, and still never finished the book. Before I was finished, I had a piece of parachute cord in my hand trying to learn the knots as I was going along. I did not succeed.
I think I've said enough. This book is outstanding, accurate, interesting, drawing are great....I'm going to buy a copy.
I think I've said enough. This book is outstanding, accurate, interesting, drawing are great....I'm going to buy a copy.
April 21, 2009
This is the classic, most thorough book on knots to be had. It shows, explains, and comments on nearly 4,000 different knots, accompanied by charming drawings. There is a lot to be learned about cultural history and probably everything else in this book. Although the drawings are clean and simple, I am especially thick-headed when it comes to knots, which is why I am reading this book. I love it that Ashley says either a knot is right, or it's wrong. There is nothing in between. How great!
December 3, 2014
If I had to dispose of my library this would one of the last dozen books on the last shelf to go. Little in life gets the deep study that Clifford Ashley put into this volume. He was an author and painter of consummate skill, well regarded for his paintings of ships and the sea and for his illustrations. Those skills are at the fore in this work, his illustrations of knots being among the clearest and most understandable in any work of the kind. On a gray day when I'm in no mood for much I can open ABoK to an arbitrary page and feel myself decompress as I browse. Essential!
June 6, 2009
There is no book or website on the subject that is more definitive. This book sets the standard and is referenced by nearly every website and other book on the subject, that I've ever read. There's over 10 knots for every task you can think of and then there's the best knot for the job. They're all illustrated in this book.
Plus, the history and lingo make for some very interesting reading. This is one of my most frequented books. Every household should have a copy of this book available.
Plus, the history and lingo make for some very interesting reading. This is one of my most frequented books. Every household should have a copy of this book available.
November 24, 2014
The original knot reference book, from the 1940s. This is probably the most important book on the subject, and has more knots listed than any other book.
It references some 3800 knots with over 7000 hand-drawn diagrams.
As this book was first published in 1944, there are some more recently discovered knots missing from this huge volume, such as the Versatackle knot and the Zeppelin bend.
This book is a must-have for any knot enthusiast.
It references some 3800 knots with over 7000 hand-drawn diagrams.
As this book was first published in 1944, there are some more recently discovered knots missing from this huge volume, such as the Versatackle knot and the Zeppelin bend.
This book is a must-have for any knot enthusiast.
October 23, 2007
A classic knot book, especially for the sailing community. A knot for every situation, and many more left over. Fellow dockhands and I spent a full summer at the marina learning every type of bowline imaginable. Some of the illustrations are a bit hard to follow; updated diagrams would make this book the essential reference it deserves to be.
March 15, 2015
This is the oft-cited Bible of knot tying. Really a catalog of knots with interesting discussion at the beginning of each section. Good source for citations, and I found a few fun ones. A few errors in diagrams (e.g. #784 was nonsensical) but on the whole very useful and fun to see the variety. A knot bestiary!
August 21, 2009
An incredible resource, though I think if I buy a book on knots I will look for something a little more compact. Published in 1944, so there's a lot of interesting history in it as well as lots of fascinating information on useful and decorative knots.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews