Unraveling Kevlar? TIPS

When tying an overhand loop knot in Kevlar, the strands can start to unravel. This is shown on the left.

The picture on the right shows the knot with the strands still tight.

In the top picture I'm purposely turning the Kevlar against the wind of the strands to open it up. This is what can happen when you tie a knot. This is three strand, 135 lb. Kevlar.

Bottom picture: If I turn the Kevlar in the direction of the strand turns it starts of a reverse kink.
TIP: Do this before you tie the knot. The start of the kink will keep the strands tightly wound before the knot tension tries to unwind them. (You don't need to tape down the Kevlar, just turn it with your fingers before tying the knot.)




Here's how the knot should look, the three strands in the loop are still tight.

On the left you see an overhand knot at the end of the Kevlar line. I do this to keep the Kevlar from unwinding on the ends.

TIP: Before cutting off the excess, rub a small bit of white or wood glue where you will be cutting it. The glue keeps the end of the string from unwinding.

TIP: Never NEVER use super glues on Kevlar or shroud lines. The CA glue will run up the line making it stiff and brittle. Use white or wood glues on Kevlar or string.

TIP: Use wire cutters to cut the Kevlar. Don't dull your knife blade or scissors. Kevlar is tough to cut through!