Crafting Tutorial: Subaquatic Rope-Handled Enclosure
In the world of underwater photography, handling large or small rigs on swaying vessels can be a challenge. One hobbyist has found a practical solution to this problem - a tool-free, knot-free rope handle. This DIY project not only offers a strong and customizable option but is also cost-efficient.
The author of the tutorial used the wrap-around loop technique, a method that secures the rope by wrapping and tucking it around itself to create a handle without traditional knots. This avoids bulky knots that can snag or be difficult to untie underwater.
Here's a step-by-step guide to creating this knot-free handle:
- Create a Loop: Fold the rope back on itself to form a loop of the size you want for the handle.
- Wrap the Rope: Use the rope end to wrap tightly around the base of the loop multiple times to secure it firmly.
- Tuck the End: Instead of tying a knot, tuck the loose end under one of the wraps, so it locks in place through friction.
- Pull Tight: Pull the wraps and loop tight to ensure the handle is secure and will not slip during use.
This method requires no tools or knots and results in a smooth handle that minimizes snagging risk, ideal for underwater gear handling.
For those who prefer a more traditional but easy-to-untie option, the Running Bowline knot can provide a secure, adjustable loop. However, it is a knot rather than a knot-free method.
Commercial options also exist, such as the DRYLINE strap, which rely on loops and clips instead of knots for quick and secure attachment. While these may require external hardware, they embody the knot-free concept.
The author attached the handle to the base of their ULCS arms, a decision inspired by close calls of dropped rigs or grabbing a sync cord by a rig. The new handle has made handling their rig easier, especially for the crew, when entering and exiting the water.
The total cost of the materials for this DIY project was $11.50. The author used two stainless steel anchor shackles (3/16" size) to attach the handle to their rig, 36" of 3/8" nylon rope for the handle, with extra for wiggle room and unforeseen errors, and 3/4" Polyolefin Heat Shrink Tubing to protect the splice. The author suggests using a hair dryer to shrink the heat shrink tubing sleeves.
In this DIY project, the author aimed to avoid knots as weak points in the rope. They decided to back-splice 6" on each side of the rope handle for strength.
This knot-free rope handle is a simple, tool-free approach for underwater photography enthusiasts looking to enhance their equipment's durability and handling.
[1] Running Bowline knot: https://www.animatedknots.com/bowline/ [2] DRYLINE strap: https://www.dryline.co/
- The author of the underwater photography tutorial used a method called the wrap-around loop technique to create a knot-free handle, which is ideal for avoiding bulky knots that can snag or be difficult to untie underwater.
- For those who prefer a more traditional but easy-to-untie option, the Running Bowline knot can provide a secure, adjustable loop, but it is a knot rather than a knot-free method.
- Commercial options, such as the DRYLINE strap, exist, relying on loops and clips instead of knots for quick and secure attachment, embodying the knot-free concept.
- In this DIY underwater photography project aimed at enhancing equipment durability and handling, the author aimed to avoid knots as potential weak points and back-spliced 6" on each side of the rope handle for strength.
