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Tom fool's knot

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Tom fool's knot
NamesTom fool's knot, Tom fool knot, Conjurer's knot, Bow knot
CategoryTrick
RelatedHandcuff knot, Sheepshank, Fireman's chair knot
ABoK#1141, #2290, #2291, #2534

The Tom fool's knot, also called the conjurer's knot or bow knot, is sometimes considered a handcuff knot but is somewhat inferior for this purpose to the knot which usually bears that name.[1]: 208  It is a good knot with which to commence a slightly fancy sheepshank.[1]: 210  It is also used as a trick knot due to the speed with which it can be made.[1]: 406 

History

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Tom fool's knot is believed to be the knot epankylotos brokhos described by the 1st Century Greek physician Heraklas.[2]

Tying

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It is formed by making two loops, not exactly overlaying each other. The inner half of each hitch or loop is pulled under and through the outer side of the opposite loop.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b c Ashley, Clifford W. (1944), The Ashley Book of Knots, New York: Doubleday
  2. ^ Hage, J. Joris (2008). "Heraklas on Knots: Sixteen Surgical Nooses and Knots from the First Century A.D.". World Journal of Surgery. 32 (4): 648–655. doi:10.1007/s00268-007-9359-x. PMID 18224483. S2CID 21340612.
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  • Ian Knot, shoelace knot based on Tom fool's knot