Nautical Knot-Tying Workshop at Mt. Vernon Hotel Museum, Saturday, September 28

[Rachel Klingberg]

Nautical Knot-Tying Workshop at Mt. Vernon Hotel Museum

Saturday, September 28

2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Mt. Vernon Hotel Museum

421 East 61st Street

New York, NY 10065

In the Age of Sail, the lives of the crew and safety of the ship depended on the sailor’s skill with knotting and splicing. The nautical knots used by 17th, 18th, and 19th-century sailors aboard wooden ships are still used today for mooring, rigging, fastening, and many other tasks, even by sailors aboard high-tech nuclear submarines.

In the 19th century, sailors created many decorative and beautiful objects with fancy knot-work, demonstrating their expertise on elaborate knot-boards, furniture handles, jewelry, rugs, and other artistic creations. In the tradition of maritime craft, we’ll learn to tie the Carrick bend knot, which is used to fasten two pieces of line together. The Carrick bend (also known as the Josephine knot, and by many other names) can be tied with even very thick line. It is a symmetrical knot, so pulling the two lines tightens it, yet it is “non-jamming,” meaning it can always be un-knotted.

First we’ll try out the Carrick bend on practice cord, then, once we’ve mastered it, we’ll create a bracelet to show off our new knotting skills. Materials, supplies, and instruction will be provided. This event is co-sponsored by the New York 19th Century Society and by the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum. 

This is a ticketed event. Visit https://historiccraftworkshop.brownpapertickets.com for tickets.