Carrick Bend

Carrick Bend

Carrick Bend

The Carrick bend is a powerful knot to join two heavy ropes, hawsers or cables that are tough to bend. It’s no jamming nature makes it a favorite to hold up massive loads, even under wet or oily conditions. The curvy symmetric form of the knot makes it appealing for decorative purposes too like making mats, wall hangings, rope trivets and coasters. Ashley terms it as a nearly perfect bend.

How to Tie the Carrick Bend Knot

Carrick Bend Instructions

Carrick Bend Instructions

Types and Uses

Appearance

Capsized

Capsized Carrick Bend

Seized

Seized Carrick Bend

Structure

Bulky and stable due to tightening of the knot.

Ends are seized for a flatter version.

Shape
 

Differs from original.

Retains original shape.

Grip
 

May slip if capsized naturally.

Secure.

 
Jamming
 

Weave should be loose, else difficult to untie.

Easy to untie.

Uses
  1. Firmly secures heavy loads if preset carefully with long tag ends.
  2. Good for making climbing nets
  1. Prevents knot collapse on extremely long ropes.
  2. Suitable for passing through capstans or winches

Variations

The true carrick bend is also known as the full or double carrick bend owing to the eight crossings where the ropes pass over and under alternately.

  1. Single Carrick Bend – Similar knots but less secure. Examples – sheet bend, granny, thief and reef knots.
  2. Double Coin Knot – Instead of emerging diagonally, the tag ends of the knot come out of the same side.

Knots Based on the Carrick Bend

Carrick Mat: A decorative woven knot typically used for pads and mats that consists of carrick bends connected by their ends to form an endless knot.

Diamond Knot: Starting off as a carrick bend it is tied in such a pattern that the ends emerge opposite and parallel to their own standing parts.

How to Tie the Carrick Bend Knot Step by Step

  1. Take the blue rope and make a simple loop with it
  2. Pass the orange rope through the arms of the blue rope
  3. Now pass it through the blue loop, as if interwoven
  4. Pull the rope ends accordingly to tighten the knot

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