Marlinespike Seamanship

Marlinespike Seamanship is the art of handling and working all kinds of fiber and wire rope and  includes every variety of knotting, splicing, serving, and fancy work. If you pick up any how-to book on sailing it usually has a chapter on marlinespike seamanship which covers basic knots and splices, but can also include a section on the more ornamental aspects of the craft, such as woven mats, lanyards, and fenders.

In this episode we venture to the working waterfront of Stonington, Maine to visit with Tim Whitten at his shop Marlinespike Chandlery and learn the history and art of working with various kinds of fiber rope.  In many people’s eyes around the world he is looked upon as a master of the craft but Tim tends to shy away from that description. While there are a handful of individuals producing fancy work as professionals, he has developed his own techniques and designs that stand out from the rest. Tim shares with our viewers how he initially became interested in knots at the young age of 10 when his father gifted him the book Harrison Book of Knots. But it wasn’t until years later in 2000 that he rediscovered the book and was inspired to move to Maine and pursue a “career” in designing and creating intricate rope work.

We’ll learn about the natural and synthetic fibers that go into the construction of fiber rope or line – cotton, agave, jute, hemp, sisal, linen, and abaca. Tim describes how his work is a combination of techniques like knitting, embroidery, tapestry-weaving, and kumihimo – an intricate form of Japanese braiding. A keen interest in the structure of the rope work and the richness in the geometry, pattern, and texture of the work all play a vital part in the intricate designs of his bell ropes, beckets, ditty bags, and jewelry. We think you’ll find the episode intriguing and perhaps, be inspired to delve into the fascinating world of fancy knots and marlinespike seamanship yourself.