How to Make a Whipping in 60 Seconds

Posted By on July 26, 2016

Did you know that burned or melted ends could cause more problems? It may be a fast way for marine stores to cut new line when you purchase it. But if that hardened end catches on the outer core, it can chafe and break down delicate rope fibers. Follow these five easy steps to make a fast, neat temporary whipping:

Whipping IllustrationMaterials You’ll Need:
Waxed sailmaker’s twine.
Beeswax cake.
Duct tape or electrical tape.
Sharp sailing knife.

1. Prepare the Line.
Wrap a thick 1″ piece of duct or electrical tape near the bitter end. Cut through the middle of the tape with a sharp knife. This keeps the end from unraveling as you make the whipping.

2. Loop the Sail Twine.
Measure and cut 18″ to 24″ of sail twine. Run it through the beeswax cake to add a protective outside coating. Make a 1″ loop in one end of the twine. Position the loop as shown (illustration 1).

3. Whip Toward the End.
Wind the long end of the twine around the line. Work up toward the bitter end. Pass the end of the twine through the loop (illustration 2).

4. Remove the Slack.
Pull the twine to center the loop underneath the turns (third illustration – top). Twirl the ends of the twine around the fingertips of each hand. Pull outward at the same time to bury the strands and tighten the whipping (illustration 3).

5. Neaten the Whipping.
Remove the tape from the end of the whipping. This leaves about 1/2″ of bitter end to extend past the whipped end. The expanded fibers will help keep the whipping in place.

Reposted from SkipperTips: Sailing Knots Secrets

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