The Tom fool's knot is sometimes considered a Handcuff knot

Handcuff knot

A handcuff knot is a knot tied in the bight having two adjustable loops in opposing directions, able to be tightened around hands or feet. The knot itself does not possess any inherent locking action, and thus is not as easy to use for such purposes as the name might suggest.The knot is also known...

but is somewhat inferior for this purpose to the knot which usually bears that name. It is a good knot with which to commence a slightly fancy sheepshank

Sheepshank

The sheepshank is a type of knot that is used to shorten a rope or take up slack. This knot is not stable. It will fall apart under too much load or too little load.The knot has several features which allow a rope to be shortened:...

. It is also used as a trick knot due to the speed with which it can be made.

Tying

It is formed by making two loops, not exactly overlaying each other. The inner half of each hitch or loop is pulled under and through the outer side of the opposite loop.

External links

• Ian Knot, shoelace knot based on Tom Fool’s Knot