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Wednesday  May 17, 2006

Dear INKEDblog: Square-knot Tattoos

Hello INKEDblog:

I have been trying to find information about square-knot tattoo sailor requirements. So far, your blog is the only one I have found with information. You have four-knot tattoo information, and I am wondering if you know any more than you have listed?

I have met the requirements for the four-knot, but have also sailed in all seven seas and am trying to find out if it would be the same tattoo. I am looking to get an authentic tat that conforms to ancient sailing lore.

Thanks,
Ron Conklin
Sitka, Alaska


Dear Ron,

In response to the INKEDblog article, “Sailor’s Tattoo Codes”, a reader wrote that any sort of rope knot indicated a four-knot sailor (a sailor who has crossed the Equator, International Date Line, Arctic and Antarctic Circles).

This knot would certainly go under the heading of a traditional nautical tattoo.

According to LTC Daniel D. Smith, Sr. (TN) of the Navy, the square knot has no symbolic value as a dress knot, and we haven’t found any other info confirming an authentic sailor symbol including the seven seas as well.

Any sailors out there who know of a tattoo like this?





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