Des is awarded an MBE

Des has been honoured with an MBE for services to the rope industry, presented by the Queen at Buckingham Palace

Des Pawson was always passionate about Knots and Sailors’ Ropework, but little did he know that when he set up his own business, Footrope Knots, he would be on the path to an MBE. In the year that the International Guild Of Knot Tyers celebrates its 25th year he was awarded the title for his services to the knot and rope industry.

At first a part time business, Footrope Knots soon grew and in 1989 he gave up his day job to concentrate on knot tying full time. The business was successful Footrope Knots supplied many trade customers. Des could be seen at boat shows and festivals around the country and abroad his red hat and beard immediately identifying him. He was a co-founder of the International Guild of Knot Tyers in 1982 – this organisation now has almost 1500 members worldwide.

In 1996 The Museum of Knots and Sailors’ Ropework was opened, in 1998 the Handbook of Knots was first published by Dorling Kindersley, this book is still in print and has been translated into 17 languages. In 2004 Des published some of his trade secrets in Des Pawson’s Knot Craft from Adlard Coles Nautical and recently he has be a speaker a number of international conferences on Knots, Ropework and the disappearing crafts.

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