Whip Basics. The Forum

Finally (sort of!) figured out how to twist the last four strands on the belly, so here's a progress report of sorts:
Intending this to be an 8 foot cow whip, the core is 2ft shot load with 3 gutted, tapered para cord strands bound with sinew. Plaited over this with gutted paracord, ending in 4 strand down to two strand tapered twist. I threw a half hitch in all loose strands so I could see how it moved without worrying about anything coming loose. Major goof, I forgot to double sheath the strands you attach the thong to the handle with... You can see my red neck fix. I figured (hoped) it would be alright when I plait the overlay as it will cover it.

I learned a whole lot more of what NOT to do already, so I reckon that's progress!

Good progress Rachel, the plait looks a little small for the core you used, but you have done a good job making it work.
If I remember correctly, the main concern with doubling the attachment strands was to protect against wear, particularly for the cowboys who liked to have the thong hang out of the cup somewhat rather than being snugged. Roy please correct me if I am wrong.
Nice tapered twist for the belly, the last strand I would usually tuck into the other or put a quick stitch to hold it together.

Thanks, Devin, this is a LOT of help, and I really appreciate it!
Yes I'm afraid the low strand count is trying to be a habit which I hope to break soon. It's a 6 plait and should have been an 8.
Thank you for how you finish your twisted taper, that's what I've had a tough time figuring out next. I will put a stitch in this one since I will be plaiting over it. I still have to roll it then back to work!
Thanks again, Devin!

Lookin good Rachel! These little gems like what Devin just slipped in there are what is so great about this place. I've been up 10 min, and already learned something very valuable. Looking forward to your finished product, I don't have the guts to attempt anything other than a bull right now. My hat's off to you for going BIG!

For a tapered twist on the overlay you typically tuck the strands together at the start and have them end at different lengths down to just two twisted strands, which are then tucked together as well

Look at Rachel tackling an eight footer already. YOU GO GIRL. It looks really good.

Nice job!

I like the taper, but the photo doesn't really show the quality of plaiting for me. It's always sort of hard to make out on darker colors.

I've never done a cow whip before; that should be something interesting to see!

David, you're right about the pic and darker colirs, it is hard to see the plait. It's better than the last one, but needs sooo much improvement!
Devin, thanks yet again for more help! Now I think I might be able to do a passable finish on this thing!
And thanks all of y'all, for the input and comments. Taylor you are right, the willingness to share sure makes this a great place to be. I certainly wouldn't be attempting this or have any idea what to do without y'all.
Glad to see you back around, Curt
Taylor, I'm still allergic to knots but it's getting better. That's why I'm secretly afraid of making a bullwhip, so you're waaaay ahead of me

Looking good

Using too low plait counts was one of my rookie mistakes too, it's an easy one to make. It's better to have more than enough and favour counts that are divisible by four.

You'll get the knots too eventually. Good news is that you don't need to know lots of them, I've only needed three different kinds of turk's heads on any bullwhip and can now tie them all by hand. Being comfortable with turk's heads will take some learning but it's totally worth it.


- Pokkis

Looking good Rachel. Seeing progress from one build to the next is what we all aim for and you have done that. Devin is right about the doubled keeper cord. It helps with wear and tear when using a loose fit in the cup.

Thank you Pokkis and Roy, I'm glad to see any improvement!
And I will keep practicing my knots for certain.

Hey Rachel, yep I'm ALWAYS around (as in shape, lol) travelling alittle. pics will be added shortly, gotta get them in PB first.

Oh! I really like the twisted fall thing. My niece has that on her purchased whip. It's nice. Maybe I'll need to try that next. Great job! I think the best part is trying them out what they are all done

Well #2 was sidelined for a bit- ready to do the overlay, but still had (have/did have/maybe still have ) issues with strand order at the top- the proper way for them to lay on the top when I start plaiting and it look and be shaped right- to fit into the cup of the wooden handle properly.
So, I practiced cores for awhile. And when I managed an acceptable one, I moved on to a 6' thong to go into the wood handle... So, whip #...
2B?!
Belly plait, nicest plait I've done to date so far, double strand drops, thus opening the future for pattern work...

Not the straightest, but huge leap for me.
Thank you, Whip Basics!!!! I'm still just a beginning hobby plaiter, but, every member here has contributed to all this. Thank y'all.
And to Robby Amper, without you, this wouldn't be possible for me. Whip Basics, the community it is, all it stands for- . I thank you.

Hooray! It's wonderful! I'm looking forward to taking my time with the next one and learning too. I think it looks lovely.

That is some pretty impressive progress. It's also an impressive work ethic. Most folks just want it to be done, so they rush through it. I can tell this is going to be something you've poured yourself into.

Please, please, pleeeeeeease keep us updated. I love seeing such good work from newer members. It's very encouraging.

Thank y'all, thank y'all for all the help!!!

David Cross wrote: That is some pretty impressive progress. It's also an impressive work ethic.

I'd like to second that most heartily!

My hands, but it all came from y'all, Whip Basics.