The Mast Head Knot Mat

More details about the The Mast Head Knot Mat

The Masthead Knot Mat

Uses: The Masthead Knot (ABOK # 1167, p 212) is described as being useful when rigging stays to the head of a temporary jury mast. Maybe! Reliable authorities certainly described this. However, Ashley emphasizes how prone this knot would be to slip. If I ever had to rig a jury mast I think I would try Rolling Hitches. I would love to hear from someone who has had the experience of having to rig a Jury Mast.

Mat: The Masthead Knot is described here because it represents the easiest way to make a small mat.

Structure: The Masthead Knot Mat starts like a clove hitch but with three loops. The loops are overlapped and threaded into each other - over and under to lock each stage. When the loops have been completely threaded through each other, one end is passed over and under across the middle to complete the locking process. This brings the two ends adjacent to each other so that one can be led around to follow the first circuit of the rope.

Finishing the Mat: The two ends are positioned near the center of the mat so that they will not be visible. They are then cut to the right length and pulled temporarily to provide additional room. The ends are then heated to melt the ends so that they may be fused together. Note: some fibers do not melt - test a piece before starting!