This article was co-authored by Victor Adrian. Victor Adrian is a Footwear Expert based in London, UK. He is a Researcher, Tester, and Editor for BestForMyFeet.com, a leading footwear and footcare blog that discusses the importance of wearing the right footwear for the right occasion. Adrian is well-versed in determining which type of footwear is ideal for a variety of work and casual environments thanks to his vast working experience in different types of industries. He teams up with footwear professionals to test products and create comprehensive product reviews and comparisons that help readers choose the ideal footwear for their needs. Additionally, he collaborates with US board-certified podiatrists and foot doctors in order to make sure the information his team provides is always accurate. Adrian studied Biochemistry at the I.E.S. Calderon de la Barca Institute.
There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.
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Knots do everything from keeping our shoes on to holding up clothes lines. Despite how great they are, knots can be really frustrating if you can’t get them undone. If you’re having trouble undoing your shoelaces or a knot in another piece of thin string, don’t give up!
Here are 9 hacks you can try to undo even the most stubborn shoelace or string knot.
Steps
Community Q&A
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QuestionHow do I untie a nylon guitar string?Community AnswerTake a bobby pin or a paper clip and poke it through the knots in the string. This should allow you a little space to be able to untie the knots the rest of the way with your fingers.
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QuestionWhat if you have a massive knot in thin string? I bought something but the string got tangled and we can't untie it.Community AnswerUse a safety pin to slowly pick you way through the knots. This takes patience, but it can be done. If that doesn't work, you may have to cut out the knotted part and add in a new string.
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QuestionHow do I get rid of a really tight shoe knot?Community AnswerThe finger method from this article would work best. Make sure you have enough time, patience and long enough nails to do the job.
Video
Tips
References
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KupwARU5e_U
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KupwARU5e_U
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBU9q1E8f4g
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdTQVnlQiD0
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvr50VDeok4
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__RQRpxWTnE&t=20s
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKWM1gh2sl8&t=45s
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC21o3qxszY
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPCwon2BKoQ
About This Article
You can use the twist and push method to undo a knot in a shoelace or piece of string. Twist one end of the string as tight as you can so that it can’t bend easily. Push the twisted end of the string into the center of the knot, which will loosen the knot. Pull the knot apart once it has been loosened. You can also use the spoon tap method. Place the knot on a flat surface. Use a light yet solid object such as a wooden spoon to hit the knot until it begins to loosen. When you eventually create a small gap inside the knot, place the tip of tweezers or nail scissors into the gap to ease the knot undone. For more tips on untying shoelace or string knots, like how to use a corkscrew to undo a knot, read on!
Reader Success Stories
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"The finger method did not work for me. I was trying to untie my favorite jogging bottoms string. The spoon tap method saved the day. It was a great help."..." more