Oooh, knots are a little science all in their own right. You'll definitely want a soft and malleable piece of rope or two to practice with and then some step by step illustrations. A quick google produced this website in english:
http://www.netplaces.com/knots/learn...-functions.htm The guy also sells a book about knots. Not that I know if it's any good, but the info on the website seems to suggest it. Otherwise just check out
Wikipedia.
In most mundane situations any self invented knot can be made to work, but the girl guides won't be impressed with you.
