Discover the traditional skills of sailors through the practical and decorative art of knotwork! These hands-on courses introduce essential techniques on ships (and shore!)— from securing lines and splicing ropes, to crafting ornamental pieces that showcase a mariner’s pride and creativity.
In our Ropework Series, Ropework I: Practical Knots and Splicing, and Ropework II: Decorative Knotting and Fancywork, participants will learn how to tie essential maritime knots for everyday use, as well as explore the beauty of classic sailor’s ropework such as mats, lanyards, fenders, and decorative coverings. Instruction emphasizes both functionality and artistry, blending safety, precision, and craftsmanship.
By the end of this series, participants will have developed a foundation in practical knotwork and the confidence to create their own decorative rope projects.
**Participants can choose to take Rope I on its own or combine it with Rope II (bundle discount automatically applied at checkout)
**Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult.
In this class, participants will learn a variety of “fancywork” skills that include both decorative and functional knotwork. This course will build on the splicing and knotting techniques from “Ropework I” to use the art of knotting to cover objects, make mats and lanyards, and decorate with beautiful knotwork.
Materials will be supplied for all to use these skills to create a decorative bellrope, but the flexibility of the course allows for participants to come up with and receive coaching on a project of their own choosing.
This course is designed to cover all topics in two in-person sessions but participants are encouraged to work on their projects at home in between sessions to build their skills.
Tuition: $185.00 - all tools and materials provided. Financial assistance is available! Please contact the Main Office at 207-594-1800 (ask to speak with our Administrator, Liz) to learn more about scholarship availability and payment options.
Instructor: Kyle von Neumann
Kyle is an educator, sailor, and lifelong eclectic learner. After moving to Maine to study wooden boat building at The Apprenticeshop, Kyle now stays busy giving harbor tours out of Rockland on the ketch Morning in Maine, and teaching sailing lessons with The Apprenticeshop and Midcoast Sailing Center. When the wind turns and the boats come out of the water for winter, you can find him keeping his hands busy by a fire making rope baubles.