5.9.13

Knots and rope


Returning back to the mainland from Arran on the ferry, I spent the time collecting knots and ropes. Once I started looking out for them, they became quite beautiful - still life at sea.


















14 comments:

Trailshome said...

They are beautiful, you're right! So much history in those different fibers, knots and weaves, too. I spent some time studying knots to teach youth how to tie them, and was amazed at all the history that went into developing the different kinds of rope. Thank you for seeing the beauty to share with us.

Anonymous said...

I've always been fascinated by sailors knots - they are extraordinary things and I wonder why each one was created and who by. Lovely close ups. Tonia

Unknown said...

Yes, they're lovely. I tied quite a lot of these knots, back in my sailing days. Even learned how to splice rope and make eyes. Wonder if I could still do it...? Comes in handy for embroidery. ;)

Su said...

Love the colours, shapes and textures that they make. I got my 'knotters' badge when I was a girl guide, can't remember any now though!

Jinksy said...

There's some nice, nautical knots amongst that lot!

Unknown said...

Big, wonderful, handmade, unique nautical knots... they are beautiful, although I think your still lives have made them even more so. Just lovely.

Noelle the dreamer said...

Great knots and the ferry looks like the big brother to our tiny 12 cars one!
All the best,

Gerry Snape said...

so glad that you like knots!! I even went so far once in Killybegs to buy a knot making book from the marine store...still have it ...I collect knots that are discarded by the fishermen on the coasts!!...not sure what yet to do with them ...that is knot sure!!!

Frances said...

Gretel, these photos are so fine, and remind me of learning to tie some knots as a Girl Scout (ages ago,) and also of my dad's enjoying making intricate nautical knots for handles to the cabinets he made, and then on to the 1960's and the golden age of macrame.

Nowadays, my looping is confined to crochet and knitting, and watching fellow subway train passengers trying to untangle the connecting wires to their ear buds (is that what they are called?) connected to their sources of personal music choices.

A long way from the open seas.

Promise to send you an email soon. xo

Laurel said...

Have you read The Shipping News? You might like it. Lots of reference to knotwork there. Sad beginning but mostly an uplifting read.

Jill said...

No technology can replace this skill. A great collection.

Gill Edwards said...

i would not have given them a second glance, but they are interesting youre right

Caroline B said...

Just shows there can be beauty in the most mundane of objects!
Now, your weekend task is to name those knots!

the woolly dog said...

They make me think of plaited hair, the photos will be great for drawing reference.