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.
It is a good knot with which to commence a slightly fancy
sheepshank
A shank is a type of knot that is used to shorten a rope or take up slack, such as the sheepshank. The sheepshank knot is not stable. It will fall apart under too much load or too little load.
The knot has several features which allow a rope to b ...
.
It is also used as a trick knot due to the speed with which it can be made.
History
Tom fool's knot is believed to be the knot ''epankylotos brokhos'' described by the 1st Century Greek physician
Heraklas
Heraklas () was a Greek physician of the 1st century AD whose descriptions of surgeons' knots and slings are preserved in book 48 of Oribasius' ''Medical Collections'' (Ἰατρικαὶ Συναγωγαί, ''Iatrikai Synagogai'') under the ti ...
.
Tying
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
*
Handcuff knot, a similar knot sometimes incorrectly identified as a Tom fool's knot
*
List of knots
This list of knots includes many alternative names for common knots and lashings. Knot names have evolved over time, and there are many conflicting or confusing naming issues. The overhand knot, for example, is also known as the thumb knot. The ...
References
External links
Ian Knot shoelace knot based on Tom fool's knot
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