Good evening knotters and all. I expect this has been asked before, although I can’t find it using “search”, but can anyone suggest a good, neat and long lasting way to attach my newly finished (and first decent one) bell-rope to the clapper of a small bell.
The metal clapper has a 6mm hole in it and the bell rope has a standard plaited loop at the top.
Vince Brennan at frayedknotarts . com states that one must never tie it on, but should use a small shackle. Fine if you have a local chandlers or time to wait for an online order - I don’t have either today.
So, all you more experienced ropecrafters: How could I attache it?
Although not very elegant perhaps a s-biner would do the trick https://www.niteize.com/product/S-Biner-Stainless-Steel.asp until you can get a shackle. They come in all sizes and are available at sporting good chain stores.
When I had the same problem several years ago I used a turks head knot to attatch the clapper to the bell rope. It was supposed to be a temporary solution but it is still there. Cheers, Tony
Thanks for your reply Tony - I did wonder about a turks head of 1mm line (and a magnifying glass). If I can’t find something suitable in metal I’ll give it a go.
Ciao - Paul
Small carbine hooks arewidely available from hardware suppliers - and camping shops where they are sold for holding keys to a belt loo or things to a rucksack. Usually lightweight alloy they would get you started.
I would think that a simple S-hook would work. I would close the open ends slightly after attaching. They come in various sizes at most hardware stores.
Or a micro screw-link, also from the hardware stores.
Then there is always a clapper - to - bell rope eye connection made from cord. Just a simple loop will do. Or a decorative one.
And maritime tradition be damned, I have also tied it right on the clapper. This one is indoors, (in my kitchen and not rung that often), so when the rope wears away, I’ll just replace the bell pull.
Merci Pat, SS, Tony and Barry - Some useful ideas for this and other projects.
It is a present for a friend so I’m going to tie it on with something fancy and find a bow shackle to replace the 1mm stuff later (perhaps when it wears through).
I hope this will be useful to others too (and now I’m safe in the forum for this year too)
