This process, known as whipping a rope, is the main way to keep natural fiber ropes from fraying. You can do this with synthetic ropes if you’d like, but it’s a lot more work than simply burning the end. The working end refers to the tip of the floss that is furthest from the spool. The standing end is the long length that is closest to the spool.

You are going to pinch the loop in place for the rest of these steps. Use your thumb and index finger to hold the loop in place and keep it from unraveling.

The tighter the floss is, the more secure your rope will be. Just be careful about ripping the floss while you do this.

Since you’re pulling the rope underneath the wrapping, you can’t actually see how far you’re pulling it. To keep it roughly in the middle, only pull the floss down 1–2 inches (2. 5–5. 1 cm) based on how big your original loop was.

If the whipping ever comes undone, you can always repeat this process.

This process will work on any rope that is not made out of natural fibers since natural fibers simply burn when you heat them. However, it will probably work on cotton rope, which is often coated in plastic to keep the rope from fraying.

The standing end of the rope refers to the long length leading away from the end. The end that you’re cutting or tying off is known as the working end.

A butane torch will do a better job of cauterizing the fibers, but you can use a lighter if you don’t have one. The butane torch will heat the fibers more evenly and will result in a cleaner fusion at the end of the rope. Keep the flame at least 12 inches (30 cm) away from the flame of your butane torch. Point the flame away from you and do not do this near any flammable materials. [11] X Research source

If your rope ever gets wet, the electrical tape may fall off. Your rope will be unlikely to fray even if this happens, though. You don’t need to put the glove on if you’re handling a small rope. You can simply dab the burnt end gently against the leather.

You can purchase a hot knife online or from a construction supply store for $25-50.

Don’t use a piece of tile that is laminated or coated in plastic. The plastic coating may melt when you touch it with your knife.

Hot knives tend to reach their peak temperature pretty quickly.

Gently moving the blade back and forth as you cut will ensure that you heat the rope evenly as you cut through it.