Turk's Head

[AaronS]

How does one draw up a Turk's head tightly around an object? I've been making quite a few of these, just simple 3 Lead and 4 and 5 Bight versions, but I thought it might be simpler, and sometimes easier, to make them a little bit larger and then tighten them up. Is this possible? Or, do I have to make my first pass fairly tight, then let the successive turns increase the tension? I really am in awe of their simple beauty, and how, with a little french hitching, they dress up anything you might put your hand to. Thanks Brion, in advance, for this forum and the "Apprentice".

Aaron