The Carrick Bend Mat is a decorative knot used to form a neat little mat or pad.
It has a close resemblance to the Carrick Bend because of its over-and-under crossing sequence.
It also belongs to the Turk’s Head family, popularly known as a three-lead, four-bight or 3L4B Turk’s Head Knot.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Carrick Bend Mat Details
Type: Decorative Knot
Other Names: Carrick Mat, Thump Mat
ABoK Reference: #2287
How to Tie a Carrick Bend Mat
- Make a loop as shown.
- Place the rope across it.
- Pass the rope through the loops using an alternative over and under sequence to form a 3rd loop.
- Pass it through the 2nd and 3rd loops to form a 4th one.
- Double the 1st loop by passing the rope end as shown.
- Double the 2nd loop.
- Double the 3rd loop.
- Double the 4th loop and finish by tucking the rope end under the mat.
When tied correctly, the Carrick Bend Mat forms an endless mat. The example above shows only two turns, but you can add additional turns using the same technique as shown in the last slide.
Carrick Bend Mat Step by Step
To make a cylindrical 3L4B Turk’s Head Knot, stretch the center hole of the Carrick Bend Mat, and slip it over the cylindrical object. Tighten the leads by following them in the same direction through the knot. Keep tightening until the leads on the object are symmetrical and tight as you like.
Choice of Rope
If you want to make a stable table mat, stick to cotton, manila, or sisal ropes. They hold their shape and stay flat.
Finishing the Mat
There are two ways to finish the Carrick Mat, depending on your rope type:
- Synthetic rope: Melt the two ends together. Just note that the rope may have to pass through other strands, which can make the mat a bit thicker.
- Natural rope: Secure both ends with a piece of thread to make sure that they don’t come loose, or bind them with a Constrictor Knot and whip the ends if you prefer a neat look.
Applications and Uses
The Carrick Bend Mat is mainly a decorative knot with a variety of practical applications:
- Works well as tablemats and hot pads.
- When tied with more turns, it can be used for chair covers and stair treads.
- Tie it in a cylindrical form to use it as a woggle instead of a flat mat.
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