Turks Head Rope Mat

The Thump Mat is not only decorative but also practical. On-board ships it was used to protect the decks in areas of heavy work and to deaden sound if something was dropped on the deck. Smaller versions of the thump mat also make decorative coasters for pots or cups.

Turks Head Thump Mat Video

Ashley’s Book of Knots on the Thump Mat

The knot pictured here would make a good thump mat for a sheet or traveler block, if tied in heavy rope and followed two or three times, in the manner of a Turk’s-Head.

Making a Traditional Sailor’s Thump Mat

If you think that you would like to get into making some rope mats, then the Thump Mat would be a good rope mat to start with. The actual process of making the rope mat is not too difficult and it will not take you long to produce a fine rope mat.

Books with Rope Mat Tutorials

One of the best books that I have come across for making rope mats, is Des Pawson’s book on Knot Craft and Rope Mats. The instruction in his book are not only easy to follow, but he tells you what diameter and length of cordage is required for each project.