How to question: Splicing rope

[LCHIEN]

I'm working on a wooden puzzle.
I need to have a looped string/rope, braided nylon about 3/16" dia.
The example I got has a splice, looks like it was glued, the splice cannot be a knot, has to be pretty smooth, although a little lump as shown is OK.
(picture below). Has to be pretty strong.

Any ideas on how to do this fairly quickly - have a number (~20) to make?

[cabinetman]

The easiest way to splice is to do a simple reverse weave. Take the loose end and open up about 1" - 1 1/2" of the individual strands. Where you want to splice in, twist the rope in the opposite direstion of the braid. Lay the loose ends on the opened sections so that the strands lay on the open strands in the order of their height. You'll see the angle of the braid on the loose end versus the angle of braid on where you are splicing. This means as it lays on it, take the lowest strand and start weaving it up into the continuous weave on every other course. Next take the next higher strand and weave up on alternate courses from the first one. As you do this keep the loose strands in order and formed with the shape of the weave. For that small of a diameter, depending on how much strength you want and the type of rope it is, about an inch or so of weave will be sufficient. When finishing the last strand, gently pull and roll the splice to tighten up the splice while forming a smooth union. Here's some methods:
http://www.alpharubicon.com/prepinfo/eyesplicingeli.htm
OR:
http://www.scouting.org.za/resources...g/Splicing.pdf



"I'M NEVER WRONG - BUT I'M NOT ALWAYS RIGHT"

[LCHIEN]

I guess I need a running splice - join two ends together (actually 1/8" nylon/poly).
Really don't want to have to tie it, any way to melt or glue them together?
Doesn't have to be the full strength of the cord, just be able to hold a few pounds of pull.

[dkhoward]

If it is braided rope, the reverse weave is probably the easiest. HOwever, most small rope like you are talking about is woven. It has a woven sheath over either a stranded core or another woven core. Splicing woven rope is a whole different animal. THere are books available that show how. THe supplies for doing it are available from any number of marine suppliers. I would suggest West Marine Products. THey may even have a short tutorial online if you want to look at it. I have done it, but not enough and not recently enough to give you any direction or advice.