This workshop is an introduction to sailor’s “Marlinespike Seamanship” decorative knot-tying. Though the word “decorative” implies that little or no function is served, the craft of decorative knot tying generally combines both form and function. ‘Covering knots’ were used historically to protect blown-glass fishing net floats and ceramic jugs of water taken along on fishing expeditions; the style of knotwork also helped identify their maker!