Alright. Let’s talk about books.
If you are like me, you have piles of ropes, a few unfinished knots on your desk, and curiosity about better ways to tie stuff.
So, which knot book is worth your time?
Let’s find out.
Best Knot Books
The Ashley Book of Knots
The ultimate encyclopedia of 3,857 knots—massive, historic, and built for serious knot lovers.
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The Ultimate Book of Everyday Knots
A modern, practical guide to 80+ useful knots with step-by-step clarity.
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The Marlinspike Sailor
A classic blend of traditional seamanship and hands-on ropework for beginners and pros alike.
See on Amazon
My First Book of Knots
A playful, kid-friendly intro to knot tying that makes learning fun and easy.
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A Knot a Day: 365 Knot Challenges
A fun, no-pressure journey through a year of knots—perfect for curious minds and casual tyers.
See on AmazonAshley Book of Knots
The Ashley Book of Knots is massive. Like…really massive.
It’s like the Bible of the knot tying world. It took 40 years to compile and 11 years to complete.
Inside?
3,857 knots and over 7,000 illustrations. That’s not a typo!
This isn’t your weekend read. It’s a reference beast. You don’t “read” this book. You explore it. You flip through and go, “Wait, that’s a knot?”
If you want to know every type of bend, hitch, or loop ever used, this is the one.
It’s not for beginners. You won’t find step-by-step walkthroughs. But if you’re deep into knots or want to own the knot encyclopedia, this is the one.
Best for: Rope Geeks, collectors, or anyone who wants the full history and catalog of knots.
The Ultimate Book of Everyday Knots
This one is modern and way more readable.
It has a collection of over 80 knots with photos and instructions. It’s actually meant for real people like the campers, sailors, climbers, or DIY folks.
I like how Budworth breaks things down. You learn the knot, what it’s used for, and how to tie it step by step with clear diagrams.
Best for: Anyone who wants to tie knots that are actually used in daily life.
The Marlinspike Sailor
This is more than a knot book.
It teaches traditional rope work. You’ll learn how to whip rope ends, do splices, and even make fancy stuff like mats and rope fenders.
You don’t need to be a sailor to enjoy it. I’m not, and I still found it super enjoyable. It’s calm, slow-paced, and a bit old-school—but in a nice way.
Beginner-friendly? Yes.
Still useful after years of tying? Also yes.
Best for: Anyone who likes old-school seamanship, hands on projects, or decorative knotting.
My First Book of Knots
This one’s designed for young learners. It is a kid-friendly book with beautiful illustrations.
It teaches the “why” just as much as the “how.”
The book even makes fun, like how Santa ties his sack with a square knot.
Great book to hand to a curious kid. Or honestly, to your grown-up friend who’s been watching you tie knots and wants in.
Best for: First timers.
A Knot a Day: 365 Knot Challenges
Want to try new knots every year?
This book mixes practical knots with decorative and even quirky ones (like flower ties or sailor’s toys).
You won’t become a knot master overnight. But you’ll definitely build your skills and have a blast doing it.
Think of it like knot training wheels mixed with a calendar. There’s zero pressure. Just try a knot a day, and see where it takes you.
Best for: Casual knot fans who want a daily knot challenge. Makes a fun gift too.
I own all of these. They’ve all helped me tie better knots.
Now it’s your turn.
Pick one. Grab some rope. Start tying.
