Recommended Supplies

Rope! Two pieces preferably made from a synthetic fiber such as nylon, polyester, or polypropylene. Each should be between 4 and 6 feet (2 m) in length and about ½ inch (1 cm) in diameter. Solid colors work best because extreme patterns can be distracting especially when you're first getting started. If possible, use two different colored solid ropes. This will help you visualize complex knots requiring two ropes. Do not be concerned about the strength of the rope for the purposes of learning.
Note: I do NOT recommend using paracord (aka parachute or 550 cord) when you are just starting to learn. It's more difficult to tie because it's flimsy and doesn't hold its shape.

Recommendations for practice:

Emergency kit quality:

  • shorter lengths: Double-braided nylon comes in multiple colors and works well also, it just may have a flatter shape than solid braid and therefore may not work well through a pulley.
  • NOTE: For the Swiss Seat you will need a single 18 to 20 ft section. Eighteen feet works well for someone weighing 150 pounds with a 30" waist wearing non-bulky clothing. Add or subtract a foot or two accordingly based on your measurements. You can always cut the rope if it's too long but you can't make it longer!
  • longer lengths (100+): polyester or nylon 11mm (7/16") static
  • accessory cord
Scissors (or other tool for cutting), lighter or matches, twine or string, and tape will be used during the lecture on whipping and fusing.
Carabiners will be used in the advanced knots and topics section. Virtually any size will do for course purposes. For learning purposes ONLY, inexpensive types (aka spring links) can be found at any big box or hardware store. For serious use, aluminum oval shaped rated approx. 24 kN or better. I recommend at least two for your emergency kit.
1" tubular webbing. I recommend at least 18 feet if you want to tie the longer version of the hasty harness. Add 6" for every 25 pounds you weigh over 150 (e.g. if you weigh 200 pounds you should have at least a 19 foot section). This is only an estimate as body styles vary. As with rope, you can always cut to make it shorter so go longer if you are not sure! You will need at least a 12 foot section for the shorter version of the harness.

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