We’ve all been there – you’re trying to undo a knot you made and somehow you’ve ended up with a knot that seems impossible to undo. Don’t despair! Here are some tips and tricks to help you untie those stubborn knots.
This is how I do it – with a Marlin Spike! This tool isn’t just for Marlin. In fact, I wouldn’t know a Marlin if it slapped me in the face. But, I have met my fair share of horrible knots.
Use the spike to poke through gaps in tightly squeezed ropes and string of all sizes, and then wiggle. The case fits onto your belt neatly, and the eye at the top means that threading string is also a breeze. I love this tool! Grab one over at Amazon.

Here are some other tips to untie knots.
How to untie a bad knot
- Loosen the knot before trying to untie it. Sometimes a knot can be so tight that it’s impossible to untangle. Before you try to untie it, try to loosen it by pulling on the ends or gently wiggling the knot.
- Use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers or a needle to gently pull at the individual threads. This can be especially helpful for knots that are tightly tangled.
- Apply a little bit of oil or lotion to the knot. This can help to loosen it and make it easier to untangle.
- Try using a knot-untangling solution. There are products on the market specifically designed to help untangle knots. They work by coating the threads of the knot with a slippery substance, making it easier to separate them.
- If all else fails, try cutting the knot. This should be a last resort, as it can damage the material that the knot is made of. However, if the knot is really stubborn and you can’t seem to untie it any other way, this may be your best option.
Remember, patience is key when it comes to untying knots. It may take a little bit of time and effort, but with these tips, some persistence and a marlin spike, you should be able to successfully untie any knot you come across.