Unless you're a sailor or Boy Scout, there are only five knots you need to know how to tie. In the past, rope was woven out of natural fibers like cotton, hemp and even hair. Today, synthetics dominate. A good cargo rope should have minimal stretch yet be flexible to handle.
Braided polyester is the best cargo rope.
It doesn't stretch much, is rot-resistant and holds knots well. To keep synthetic rope from fraying when you cut it, hold a candle or lighter to the ends long enough to melt the yarns. Secure the ends of a natural-fiber rope with waxed whipping thread or tape. Click here for books about knots. Today's Homeowner, a division of Times Mirror Magazines.