The Westmorland Knot
We think this knot works pretty well for the HerdwickyTIE. According to Wikipedia, it is also known as the Small Knot, the Simple Knot, the Oriental Knot or the Kent Knot. Also sometimes the Four-In-Hand Knot. Given all these names, we thought it was quite reasonable to add "Westmorland Knot" to the list.
Try this yourself:
- Start with the reverse of the tie facing away from you (the label outwards - if it shows, everyone knows you have the discrimination to pick Herdwick!). The wider end will be on your right in the conventional manner. You will need a little practice to decide the proper length for the thin end, but start with it relatively short (ie, mid-chest) to begin with.
- Pass the wide end UNDER the thin end and on to the left side.
- Pass the wide end OVER the thin end, back to the right.
- Pass the wide end up between your body and the neck loop until it is under your chin.
- Now pass the wide end down through its own loop at the front.
- Gently pull on the wide end to tighten the knot; pull on the thin end to bring the knot closer to your chin, giving a half twist as you do so, so that the front side of the thin end is to the fore. Take the time to play gently with your knot until it feels comfortable and looks balanced and tidy.
Sounds complicated, but actually it's a doddle and you won't think twice about it after a couple of trials.
If you are happier with diagrams, try these.
We really like this knot because it is the least bulky we have found, and looks the neatest - but please let us know if you find another style which works for you, and we will include it here.
