How can I stop my rope from unraveling?

If you are in the process of making it, twist each strand a little tighter to help it keep its shape. A well-laid rope can be terminated in several ways. By degrees of complexity, try the following on the ends: An overhand knot. A plastic rope can be melted at the end and smashed together. Whip the end with a piece of tape, string, or strong thread. (Whipping can be for temporary use or given a professional looking finish.) Learning to splice will provide a permanent solution to most terminal needs. Many times the end needs to be as thin as the rest of the rope. Thin fibers out of one half of each strand, re-twist tightly, and whip the ends. Start splicing back at the midpoint.