Fireworks-Worker-Knot

This is a knot most used to fasten fireworks components. It is simple, quick and tight enough for most jobs. Actually, it is just a simple straight knot…

One end of the sting has to be anchored down. Use any type or string or chord you feel comfortable with. The same goes for the gauge.

I’ll be using a shoe string and some electric wire, just for better contrast on the photographs.

One possible way to hold your string and some samples to be fastened

Adjust what you want to fasten. Hold it together with your left hand. Take the free end of the string and stretch it above the pieces to be joined. Leave a length long enough to wrap the pieces once and still have about 3cm (just over an inch).

Going counter-clockwise wrap the string around the pieces. Slightly twist your left wrist gently back and forth for a better crimp. At the same time pull the whole set firmly towards you.

One turn is usually enough and that was the length of sting saved on “Step 2”. Still, you can add as may turns as you want. Just reserve a longer length and keep winding the string neatly from right to left.

Put your left thumb over the last coil where it overlaps to hold it down. Let go of the free end of the string.

Hold the string with index and middle fingers above and thumb below, as shown. Put some slack on the anchored portion of the string by approaching your left hand to the anchor point.

Turn your wrist clockwise, until you thumb faces up. You have formed a loop, Ajust this loop so it lays over your other thumb. Let go of the loop and let it drop over the free end pf the string.

Pull it gently. A knot has been formed. Keep pulling until both portions of the string are straight. As it tightens the knot moves towards your left thumb. Just direct it as to slide beneath it.

There!

In the old days, the string had been passed in molten pitch. It would then be sticky enough to hold with just on knot.

To keep your knot from loosening, just repeat “Step 5” and you will have a crooked knot. Or you can turn your wrist counterclock-wise and get a straight knot.

Cut off the excess string.

Once you master the knot, you can safely keep the knife in your hand all thought the process.

Enjoy.