The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Knots
by Geoffrey Budworth

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Book Reviews of The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Knots

Book Review: Another good basic overview of knot tying
Summary: 3 Stars

Each colored photograph is accompanied by a clear tonal computer drawing of how to form the bend, hitch, knot, or braid, and a brief description of its application. Pointing, hitching, or grafting are absent as well as fender making or rope mats. The work covered only useful knots, and this brevity serves a purpose. By displaying all the practical information on a single page, Mr. Budworth had wisely provided an instant learning forum at a glance. This is important so that no time is wasted while instructing semi-literate co-workers the way a knot is meant to be tied and used while standing in the rain, snow, or under a blazing sun. I hope other knot books adopt a similar presentation style.

The size of the book is a drawback though, and since most knot application discussions take place on site, THE ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF KNOTS might be covered in paint, tar, or bird mess as it gets carted around under piers, engine rooms, aloft, or other dank places which would injure those glossy photographs.

There are a few shortcomings - One is that the book hardly fits the description of an 'encyclopedia', and might be subject to misinterpretation; and two, the book contains two serious knot tying errors: first on page 140, item #2 in the Lapp Knot, and second on page 31, item #4 in that the Miller's Knot is actually a Strangle Knot, which I'm sure the author had no control over the editorial process (including the Granny Knot on the front cover).

Overall, THE ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF KNOTS contains good knot history, cordage history, and pragmatic tying and use instruction in a brief and thorough format. This book will have many applications other than hitching a ride in a rigger's bucket up a mast, flagpole, or bridge stanchion.

Summary of The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Knots

Sports Books

• Subjects > Education & Reference > Encyclopedias > Sports
• Sports & Outdoors > Hiking & Camping > Instructional