Book review The Ashley Book of Knots by Clifford W. Ashley

Uwek · Nov 23, 2021

Book Review:
The Ashley Book of Knots
by Clifford W. Ashley

7.000 illustrations on 640 pages

SYNOPSIS:

The definitive book on knots—including approximately 3,900 different kinds of knots, from simple hitches to “Marlingspike Seamanship," this book and a piece of cord will open a new and challenging world of practical adventure to readers of all ages.

The Ashley Book of Knots includes almost everything there is to know about knots, each precisely named and classified (with some new knots officially listed for the first time in the original 1944 publication). Mr. Ashley describes when each knot initially appeared, something about their history, and what each knot is best used for.

Including an easy-to-use index of knots, Mr. Ashley gives explicit directions on how to tie each knot. Devoting eleven years to writing his masterpiece, he describes each step simply and clearly and penned some 7,000 illustrative drawings alongside the text. This classic resource is based on forty years of looking for, trying out, and thinking up new knots. Mr. Ashley’s drawings abound in humor and the text is full of colorful anecdotes. The Ashley Book of Knots will make a unique and permanent addition to any library.

CLIFFORD W. ASHLEY had two ruling passions all his life: marine painting and knot tying. A student of Howard Pyle's, he is represented in the permanent collections of museums and libraries all along the East Coast. At the time of his death he was one of the world's leading authorities on knot tying. Both these interests kept him close to the open sea, and when he wasn't trading knot knowledge with sailors, his easel was set up on wharves, decks, or shorelines.

Entry in Wikipedia:

The Ashley Book of Knots is an encyclopedia of knots written and illustrated by the American sailor and artist Clifford W. Ashley. First published in 1944, it was the culmination of over 11 years of work. The book contains 3,854 numbered entries and approximately 7,000 illustrations. The entries include knot instructions, uses, and some histories, categorized by type or function. It remains one of the most important and comprehensive books on knots.

Use as a reference
Due to its scope and wide availability, The Ashley Book of Knots has become a significant reference work in the field of knotting. The numbers Ashley assigned to each knot can be used to unambiguously identify them. This helps to identify knots despite local colloquialisms or identification changes. Citations to Ashley numbers are usually in the form: "The Constrictor Knot (ABOK #1249)", "ABOK #1249" or even simply "#1249" if the context of the reference is clear or already established.
Some knots have more than one Ashley number due to having multiple uses or forms. For example, the main entry for #1249 is in the chapter on binding knots but it is also listed as #176 in a chapter on occupational knot usage.
The Ashley Book of Knots was compiled and first published before the introduction of synthetic fiber ropes, during a time when natural fiber cordage – typically twisted, laid, or braided rope – was most commonly used. The commentary on some knots may fail to address their behavior when tied with modern synthetic fiber or kernmantle style ropes.