How to make a Monkey Fist using the SpeedyJig Monkey Fist Jig

[@randomjohn]

SpeedyJig products may be purchased at: speedyjig.com/?rfsn=5784885.de33f0 The SpeedyJig link is an affiliate link, using it helps me... and I greatly appreciate it :-)

[@super-acaoestilinguesartes6484]

O que faz a bolinha também dá pra fazer os bracetes e colares? já acompanha linha?

[@shweebop]

Perfect tutorial! Thank you for making it so clear. This is the first tutorial on this that didn’t confuse me!

[@echospirit88]

Great tuitural

[@sanfranciscobay]

I like this knot. I made one by hand with 5-6 wraps over a 1" plastic ball and it was extremely difficult because it everything wants to fall apart. I purchased the SpeedyJig and it's much easier.

[@randomjohn]

I learned to do this by hand as well, I prefer using the jig for sure. I hope you like it! I haven't been doing much with paracord the last couple years, I'd probably have to watch my videos to remind myself how to do this... lol. Thanks for watching and for the comments!

[@mdvbfreak1734]

Great video. Just found this and it seems to be the best one step by step. I added a snake knot at the end and used a 1.5" SS 440 bearing ball and paracord zippe pull.

[@altann5959]

Thank you for beeing so clear and patient .

[@Slbrown43]

I'm not sure how you managed to build this monkey fist with 4.5' of cord, and starting at the mid-point. I used the ball that came with the jig and the jig itself. When I tried that, I barely made the first pass of the 5 loops the 1st time around. Then I tried using only a 6" tail on the starting end (again with 4.5'), and still couldn't get into round #3, inside the original 2 bands. So I used 6.5' with a 6" beginning end tail, and just barely finished. Even after 'tightening" the knot 2x mid-build. At the finish, I had only 3" on one end and 6" on the fid end. Going forward I will use 8-10 feet so I can add a lanyard at the end. That all said, the jig does make a much neater knot, with much less finessing at the end.

[@aliasname5518]

I second this - could've also spliced two paracords with different colors together to make it more clear what's start and finish end

[@Dc-Yc43ver]

Thank you! This was very informative. Loved it!

[@jonathanruiz1403]

Best video, great directions and a very impressive jeg.

[@randomjohn]

Much appreciated, thanks for watching and for the kind words. :-)

[@RickyD1968]

WOW this is so hard to make even with the jig !!! I have tried 3 times now and had to start over. going to try again number 4 try now !!!

[@jacked_koala]

Awesome video, I recently just got this jig. I will be using this video as a reference guide for myself allot.

[@randomjohn]

After making your 4th or 5th monkey fist, you'll be running on auto-pilot... along with knot tying in general, this a fun skillset to have. On a side note, I'd be curious about other applications for monkey fists. So far I can make a key ring, a quick-deploy key ring, a flotation key ring, and a begleri fidget toy. In the Navy way back in the day we used these on heaving lines when we moored. In states where it is legal (certainly not Michigan), some folks weaponize these things. But what else can these be used for?

[@sanfranciscobay]

3:55 You made your first wraps Counter Clockwise. Does it make a difference between Counter and Clockwise?

[@randomjohn]

Probably, I'm not sure if I've tried that.

[@TheKerstingm]

How do you keep the form from bunching up or getting uneven from side to side? I am having problems keeping everything uniform as I am tightening the strans, especially the ones at the turns where you change directions. I'm not trying to make them tighter than my other strans, they are getting tighter then the rest

[@beverlydeardurff5366]

I have made monkey fist using leather boot laces and marbles. I've never used a jig. I've just tied them by hand. It takes a lot of visual skills to get the proper look. I make mine into necklaces.

[@super-acaoestilinguesartes6484]

Como funciona isso é vendido como um kit ?vem tudo?da pra fazer braceletes e colares com o mesmo?

[@randomjohn]

Eu não falo português, então estou usando um tradutor. Para fazer pulseiras, sugiro jig neste vídeo: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g56vpYyGgdmtp8k Estes podem ser adquiridos aqui: www.speedyjig.com/?rfsn=5784885.de33f0

[@benth162]

I did the first one with the blue ball, and I am here now to learn how all over again about starting a 1.5" chromed ball bearing. It may be stainless, I am not sure. So here we go.......

[@randomjohn]

Hope it turns out nice! Remember, we're all friends here :-) I did many monkey fists that I disassembled, trial and error, especially when using different sized objects.

[@sanfranciscobay]

Were the lengths of your finished line tails the same or different?

[@randomjohn]

They were different, but not by much. There was enough cord leftover on each side to braid.

[@hobartzardozerton7357]

So if i had an oblong object say egg shaped, would i add extra loops to the long end? Ya know?

[@randomjohn]

Interesting question, I never tried it. I would suspect so, maybe 50% more on the long side. Then I would have to compensate for the cord length so the ends wouldn't be as off-centered. I'm looking around my room trying to find something to try!

[@sanfranciscobay]

@@randomjohn A Socket from a Ratchet is a Cylinder Shape, Metal and Heavy. A Cork from a Wine Bottle is Cylinder Shape and Light.

[@Simo68-]

Oh, good guide, thank you, I want to ask you: if I want to do only the fist without the string coming out (only the sphere) how do I cut them and block them and hide the tops of the string? Thanks Simon

[@randomjohn]

If you check out my video on how to make a Begleri, I show how to tuck the cord to make them disappear. That would probably be the easiest explanation I could give. I show how to tuck the cord towards the end of the video. Thanks for the comment and question!

[@Simo68-]

@@randomjohn Thanks a Lot best, Simon

[@Toilet591]

@Random John

[@randomjohn]

Hey Bro, was there something else from this comment you'd like me to address?

[@super-acaoestilinguesartes6484]

Isso é para fazer chaveiro?

[@randomjohn]

Pode ser usado para fazer um chaveiro. Obrigado por assistir!

[@ronsbeerreviewstools4361]

Thanks for posting, this is a informative video.

[@luisvega7508]

How did the start end end up on the back right?? On the 1st wrap

[@TheGreatAwakening160]

4.5 feet of cord is definitely Not long enough. What's the total length of cord needed for this job? 10? 12? 20? No matter how I do this, I'm always short on one end and cannot finish.

[@super-acaoestilinguesartes6484]

Com esse de fazer bolas menores da usar pra fazer braceletes?acompanha linha ?se puder por gentileza responder em português Brasil obrigado

[@randomjohn]

Eu não tenho certeza se entendi. Os gabaritos incluem corda e bolas, o suficiente para 2. Espero que isso seja útil.

[@shaunodeady403]

How do you thread the needle ?

[@randomjohn]

One end is open and the inside is threaded, so the paracord is stuck in the hole and the needle is twisted until it is secure (like tightening a screw).

[@gayleralan]

Me: cuts off 4.5 feet of cord...continue to watch...have no idea how much cord I need 😏

[@debbl7311]

I am confused. What is the total length of the cord? Thanks

[@randomjohn]

The cord that comes with the kit is ~10'. With a 1" ball, about 4.5' of cord is used so you should be left with 2'+ of cord on each end when you're done.

[@debbl7311]

Wardens Thanks that helps a lot! Your videos have helped me learn how to tie a monkey fist when I couldn’t figure it out myself, I really appreciate it. Today for the first time I actually tied and tightened my first monkey fist without having to have the video running so that’s pretty cool. Thanks again I love your videos.

[@luisvega7508]

Nope didn't work. Used 5ft and didn't have enough cord on the ends.

[@Blake_M.]

So much easier than trying to free hand it

[@randomjohn]

Agreed! Thanks for watching!

[@SaveMeFromMyself1990]

So you are tightening it backwards? I've been trying to tighten mine forever it's driving me crazy lol

[@randomjohn]

Yeah, that is probably the most annoying part... getting lost in all the lines. If you keep track of the end of the line you start with and massage your way around, that how I stumbled through it. It does take a bit of practice, but eventually it does get easier. Maybe loosely tightening it the first time around might make it easier, then you can see the slack a bit better. Hope this is useful!

[@SaveMeFromMyself1990]

@@randomjohn Thanks! I started one that only has 3 passes all the way around and after watching your video I was able to get it tight FINALLY. I'm trying to make a baby Yoda for a friend lol. Patience is the key to this craft that's for sure!! Thanks for the great video :)

[@randomjohn]

Thanks so much! Good idea with working on fewer passes. Glad you were able to get it done!

[@1WhiteH20kayaker]

It bothers me that one of the rubber feet on the base is not positioned the same as the other three.

[@claytonsimplot9554]

It's a loose weave and the ball is still round.

[@CarlaChamp]

I am trying to make this and I keep getting one side that has a space and the ball keeps showing. I can't seem to tighten the sides evenly. Your video makes it look so easy. I think my problem might be that I am tightening to much. Frustrating!!!

[@randomjohn]

Yeah, lots of factors can come into play. For me, making the video, I can edit and make it look easy. As you already suspected, over tightening might be an issue. Also, some paracord has a slight variance in size... not all 550 paracord is the same. You might want to add an additional wrap to one side, so instead of doing 5 wraps do 6 (so it would be 6 wraps, then 5, and 5). If you watch my 'begleri' instruction video, that is what I do for that application. Monkey fists do take some time to learn, there is a bit of finesse involved, but it will eventually become a more intuitive/easier process with practice. I hope this is helpful, thanks for the comment.

[@CarlaChamp]

I did it! I was over tightening. Your video made it very easy to learn! Thanks so much for posting!

[@heugenelunsford9677]

7 wraps for a 1.5in ball?

[@randomjohn]

I would do 7 wraps and look at it, tough to say without being hands on. I've retied many of a monkey fist. Sometimes the bulkiness of the paracord can even impact the number of wraps, even if you're using the same weight the thickness of the cord can vary. I keep notes on how many wraps with using different balls and cord types, then I have it as a reference... I always think I'd remember, but I won't. I hope my non-answer answer was somewhat helpful.

[@heugenelunsford9677]

The fact the ball is smooth chrome probly has something to do with the cord slipping.

[@fernandosoares8619]

ola, aonde vc comprou o speedyjig? hello buddy where did you buy speedyjig?

[@randomjohn]

Hello Fernando, this can be purchased at Speedyjig.com or Amazon: goo.gl/hV5FQo.

[@fernandosoares8619]

thank u very much . im very glad becuase you understood every word that i said lol

[@fernandosoares8619]

gracias, obrigado, thanks

[@isko192]

No entanto, fica muito caro a importação. Custa por volta de 24 dólares e 32 dólares de importação= 72 dólares !

[@T1HSTAE]

Can this be used with a pool ball?

[@randomjohn]

I used a tennis ball before, I suppose those are about the same size.

[@ayseedthebuilder2135]

​@Random John how many wraps for the tennis ball?

[@randomjohn]

Oh, I don't remember... I'd guess 15-18 with 550 paracord.

[@d.wooding878]

Your measurement at the beginning is SO confusing. You say we need 4.5' of cord. Then you measure off 4.5' from the end with the needle. The confusing part is that you then quickly measure off from the other end (I thought we only needed 4.5 feet?)and that starting is confusing.

[@randomjohn]

Yeah, I could have presented a better way to do that (hindsight clears these things up). Maybe try this: fold the cord in half, measure 2' 3" from the fold. Have the 2' 3" from the center be the starting point of your wraps. Does that make more sense? The 4.5' in the center of the cord will wrap around the ball, the remaining cord at the end is for... well, whatever you decide to do with it. I hope this is helpful.

[@d.wooding878]

@@randomjohn Thank you...that helps.

[@noemirosales3410]

I was very confused too at the beginning!!😂 Still am! It's easier if you just say measure out the four and a half, and then quote how much string you leave before you start wrapping....maybe?

[@dand6843]

This is what they used to do with crazy people in the nut houses.Teach them to weave. They were so worn out by the end of the day. All they wanted to do was sleep.

[@susanweston9971]

Do you sell the jig? If so where would I find it?

[@randomjohn]

The jig can be purchased directly from Speedyjig.com or thru Amazon via this link goo.gl/hV5FQo I do not sell the jig, I'm just some guy who likes the jig and made some videos.

[@budahbaba7856]

I think i could have conceptualized this easier with two colors of paracord :)

[@sanfranciscobay]

You are not trying a knot using 2 pieces of cord. You are using a single piece of cord. There are videos of using 2 different colored cords to make a monkey fist.

[@victoreboli211]

I want to get started on doing decorative knots like monkey fists, bracelets and others. So could you guys tell me , is paracord really necessary?? Cant I use any other kind of cords,like shoelaces(for the start) and other kinds of small ropes? Ill be very glad if someone responds : )

[@jeffffro7674]

The best part of being an artist is there are no rules!!! Do whatever you feel like doing! If ANYONE tells you that you can't do this or that, tell them to piss off!! I think shoelaces would work pretty great, better than Paracord I think cause it's everywhere and probably free off of retired shoes. That's exactly how you think outside the box!!!! Go for it!!

[@beverlydeardurff5366]

I have used leather boot laces.

[@sanfranciscobay]

He used 10 feet for that ball so Shoe Laces typically are not that long. Paracord has 7 or more internal strands with a woven outer strand. It can coil so you have to be careful. Any light gauge Cord would work. Stronger and durable is better than weak and fragile since you are spending your valuable time to make it. Think Boating Grade Line or Backpacking Type line.

[@Terryj465]

My first "paracord project" was 2 old hiking boot laces that had the look of paracord. It started as bracelet then turned in to a nice lighter holder with carabiner clip 😊. Have made some children's bracelets with heavy yard. Embroidery thread. 😅 Goal. Enjoy what you do and don't over think it.

[@anna.misirlaki7442]

What kind of rope can i use? Where can i buy it?

[@randomjohn]

I typically use 325 or 550 paracord. You can buy directly from them at: www.paracordplanet.com/ Amazon is also a good spot, search 550 paracord. I used 550 paracord in this video. Larger or small cord/rope may be used, but the length will need to be adjusted.

[@SpadesBookOnline]

Also, one can purchase paracord at a Home Depot, Lowe's, etc.

[@sanfranciscobay]

Marine Grade Cord Rope works great and there are many different thickness and types.

[@cwmovieclips2723]

Thank you

[@Pascal-qp2ud]

Ok pour les gauchers 😊👍

[@gerardocuevas3330]

what for ?

[@johnnyparsnips7641]

Nowadays, decorative What they were first used for, was sailors tying the first around a rock at the end of a rope so they could easily throw lines across the port, since htere isn't a lot of weight to rope

[@MyTube4Utoo]

Cool!

[@HeavyDemir]

Thank you :)

[@randomjohn]

'tis my pleasure

[@Hill_null]

Not sure how you start from the middle, using one end to do all the wrapping and you have so much cord. I'm lost

[@randomjohn]

If the way I'm measuring off the cord is throwing you off, try this: measure off 2 feet from the end without the lacing needle and start from there. You'll get roughly the same result if using the pre-measured cord from the kit. After you tie 3 or 4 of these you'll get a better feel for how much cord you're using and how the structure of the monkey fist is formed. I hope this helps.

[@berigomez9953]

Bueno

[@randomjohn]

¡Gracias!

[@DRONESnMORE]

Honestly, I didnt even get the dam ball on intill this video ended, it's a pain in the ass

[@alan30189]

🐵🙉🙊🐒🙈

[@Toilet591]

😢

[@randomjohn]

Sorry for the sadness, Bro. If my tutorial isn't helpful, there are other paracord channels that give demo's. I hope your sadness ceases.

[@yotesfan]

Holy crap this is so frustrating! Either the cord you sent with the kid is crap or I am crap. I am giving this about 2 more hours of my time and then I am returning it!!! Of course unless I throw it through the window first!

[@randomjohn]

Hi there. You can contact the manufacturer at: www.speedyjig.com/pages/contact-us If there is a part in the process that is giving you an issue, let me know what it is and I'll try to walk you through it (or the folks at SpeedyJig can as well).

[@largemonkey1848]

TheNo1yotesfan exactly. I suck at this stuff . he made it so easy

[@peacemaker40sw]

i think it's you. I have used something similar with both a golf ball and a ball bearing of similar size and they worked out fine. Be patient and pay attention.

[@sanfranciscobay]

Understanding what to do, practice and patience and you'll get it.

[@TheGreatAwakening160]

Me too! Can't make it work, definitely not with 4.5 feet of cord.