“A man who can make a Manrope knot, Star knot or Rose knot is an object of respect”

A. WETJEN

Beckets are the style of handle that was used on sailors sea chests. Like bell ropes, beckets are made using traditional tools, materials and methods.

Knotting and fancywork were a popular way to spend the little freetime sailors had onboard sailing ships. However, the majority of sailors only knew a few knots just to fulfill their duties. Anyone who could tie complex and decorative knots were well respected. Most iconic of all knotwork were sailors chest beckets. To tie a pair of fancy beckets, a sailor used all his skills he had learned during his career. Beckets were studied by other crew members to determine if the owner was a true “marlinspike sailor” The inspiration for my work comes from this traditional form of art from the time of tall ships. The basics of knotting and splicing I have learned from my father who had learned the skills from his father and grandfather, captain Albert H. Snellman (below).

Besides knotwork I also make hard laid cords for fellow knot tyers, and tools like marlinspikes and fids. I mainly use traditional materials like hemp, flax, cotton, tar and shellac. All my work takes its form in my own workshop in Halikko, Finland. Welcome to visit, Mikko Snellman