Whipping (Ropework)

A binding of small cord around a rope end or section to prevent unlaying, fraying or movement.

Common methods include common, sailmaker’s and West Country whipping, chosen for rope construction, permanence and available access. Whipping can finish a cut end, secure a splice or mark a line but does not restore strength lost through damage.

The binding should be tight, properly finished and compatible with the rope. Heat-sealing synthetic fibres can complement a whipping but can create hard sharp edges or damage heat-sensitive high-performance fibres, so the manufacturer’s method should be followed.