This book brings together twenty essays on diverse topics in the history and science of knots. It is divided into five parts, which deal respectively with knots in prehistory and antiquity, non-European traditions, working knots, the developing science of knots, and decorative and other aspects of knots.Its authors include archaeologists who write on knots found in digs of ancient sites (one describes the knots used by the recently discovered Ice Man); practical knotters who have studied the history and uses of knots at sea, for fishing and for various life support activities; a historian of lace; a computer scientist writing on computer classification of doilies; and mathematicians who describe the history of knot theories from the eighteenth century to the present day.In view of the explosion of mathematical theories of knots in the past decade, with consequential new and important scientific applications, this book is timely in setting down a brief, fragmentary history of mankind's oldest and most useful technical and decorative device — the knot.

One of the most significant unsolved problems in mathematics is the complete classification of knots. The main purpose of this book is to introduce the reader to the use of computer programming to obtain the table of knots. The author presents this problem as clearly and methodically as possible, starting from the very basics. Mathematical ideas and concepts are extensively discussed, and no advanced background is required.

The newest member of Martha’s close-knit quilting circle has an eye for couture. But when the designer’s fingerprints are found blanketing a crime scene, Martha must prove that he didn’t have a hand in homicide! Martha Rose is alarmed by the discovery of Dolleen Doyle’s dead body, especially when evidence suggests a fellow quilter committed the crime. Set on clearing her pal, Martha searches for answers—but with ties to a convicted fraudster’s stolen millions and a secret office room, the victim’s past raises even more questions. As Martha inches towards the culprit, she learns that wrapping the case up—and living to baste another square—will be trickier than she ever imagined . . . Praise for Mary Marks and her Quilting Mysteries “Characters are brilliantly written in entertaining situations . . . Gone are the stereotypes of mature women expected to stay at home and knit quietly by the fire.” —RT Book Reviews on Gone but Knot Forgotten “A pleasurable and satisfying addition to any quilting mystery fan’s reading list. Recommend to those who cannot get enough of Terri Thayer, Elizabeth Craig, or Earlene Fowler.” —Library Journal on Knot in My Backyard

The Pocket Guide to Outdoor Knots provides easy-to-follow, step-by-step diagrams and instructions for tying over eighty knots. Over 300 full-color illustrations and photographs guide the reader through the stages of tying each knot correctly. This beautifully illustrated, full-color guide unties the mysteries of dozens of knots. Using incredibly clear photographs and diagrams, as well as straightforward, easy-to-follow instructions, any reader can master knots for fishing, boating, camping, and climbing. Climbers will feel safer knowing they have tied the perfect Water or Tape knot. Fishermen will fight big fish with more confidence. There are overhand knots, figure eight knots, bowlines and sheet bends, crossing knots, and more. There is even fascinating "knot lore." Whether for practical use or just for fun, this is a great place to start knotting, so grab a piece of rope, sit back, and enjoy!

This beautifully produced compendium gives you a knot challenge for every day of the year. With hundreds to choose from, all colour coded by use, you can work through the book from start to finish, gradually building on your knowledge as you go, or alternatively dipping in and out for your daily knotting fix. Covers: - all the essential knots - useful hitches, bends, whippings and splices - handy knots for making outdoor items: plant hangers, harnesses, tree swings, rope ladder - mini knot craft projects: cool keyrings, friendship bracelets, belts, mats - magic 'trick' knots: escapology knots, vanishing knots, travelling knots - freestyle knots: have a go at the 'thrown bowline' (an old cowboy trick) - everyday fashion knots - new ways to tie your shoelaces, scarf, or even your tie! You won't escape this book without learning something, and you won't put it down without picking up an interesting fact or useful technique. Give it a month and you'll be a knot tying fanatic; give it a year and you'll be a knotting supremo!

From the co-founder of the International Guide of Knot Tyers, comes an oversize, easy-to follow guide perfect for sailers, campers, fishermen, climbers, and everyone else who might want or need to tie a solid, useful knot This beautifully illustrated, full-color guide unties the mysteries of more than eighty knots. Using clear photographs and diagrams, as well as straightforward, easy-to-follow instructions, any reader can master knots for fishing, boating, climbing, crafts, and household uses. Climbers will feel safer knowing they have tied the perfect Water or Tape knot. Home decorators will enjoy trying their hand at the beautiful and elaborate Chinese Cloverleaf. Fishermen will fight big fish with more confidence. Filled with fascinating knot lore, The Ultimate Book of Everyday Knots is perfect for anyone wishing to learn advanced knotting techniques for any purpose at all. Featuring illustrations throughout, sections include: Overhand knots Figure of eight knots Bowlines and sheet bends Crossing knots And other useful knots Whether for practical use or just for fun, this is a great place to start knotting—so grab a piece of rope, sit back, and enjoy!