How to tie knots – complete rope knots tying guide – their use and how to tie them.

A rope knots tying guide for every purpose

All outdoorsmen or survivalists need a rope knots tying guide to ensure they are familiar with a variety of knots and the specific purpose for each knot type. Knots are used, of course, to tie objects together or to secure them in place. They are essential in a range of activities such as sailing, camping, climbing, fishing, and many others. For example, in sailing, knots are used to secure sails in place, adjust their position and angle, and tie ropes to buoys, docks, or other boats. In camping, knots are used to set up tents, hammocks and tarps, to hang food away from bears, or to create makeshift clotheslines.

In fishing, knots are used to tie lures, hooks, or swivels to the line, to join two lines together, or to make a loop at the end of the line. In climbing, knots are used to attach ropes to anchors, to create friction for rappelling, to tie climbers together, or to create a safety backup in case of a fall.

The type of knot used depends on the specific activity, the type of rope, and the experience and preference of the climbers.

In addition to practical applications, knots are also used for decorative purposes, such as in macrame or knitting. In macrame, knots are used to create patterns and textures, while in knitting, knots are used to join yarns together or to create decorative details.

Types or categories of knots

First, understand the basic terminology of knots. Here are the various types/categories of knots and what they are used for.

Bend– joins two ropes together.
Hitch – ties rope to a post, stake etc. A hitch holds because of the friction set up between two surfaces of the rope pressed together.
Stopper – usually on the end of a rope to prevent it being pulled through an opening.
Loop – forms a single or multiple loops.
Lashing –binds objects together with multiple turns.
Whipping – ties off and seals end of rope.

How to tie a knot

Knowing how to tie various knots can be incredibly useful and can make a significant difference in surviving a unexpected situation (like a zombie apocalypse). The basic knots, uses, and methods of tying them that you should know for your survival are illustrated in the handy knots step-by-step guide below.

Overhand knot

No rope knots tying guide would be complete without an Overhand knot guide. This basic overhand knot is the simple knot that most people tie every day as the first half of tying their shoes. It can also be used to temporarily whip the end of a rope (to stop the rope end from unraveling). This knot could replace the half-hitch as a finishing knot for other knots. This knot alone will reduce the strength of a straight rope by 55 percent.

Square knot

A square knot is a good, simple knot for general purpose use. This knot is basically two overhand knots that are reversed, as in Right over Left, Left over Right. It is used to tie the ends of two ropes of equal diameter together (just like your shoelaces) and must be secured with an overhand on both ends. It is easy to inspect, as it forms two loops and is easy to untie after being loaded. 

Sheep shank knot

A sheep shank knot is a type of knot that is used to shorten a rope or take up slack in a line. It is commonly used in a variety of outdoor activities such as camping, sailing, rock climbing, and more.

This knot is made by creating a loop in the rope and then passing the two ends of the loop around the standing part of the rope before securing them with a knot. This creates a temporary loop in the rope that can be used to shorten the line or take up slack.

In addition to shortening a rope, the sheep shank knot is also useful for securing a rope to a post or other anchor point. It can be used to create a loop that is easy to adjust and tighten as needed.

A sheep shank knot can be used to take the load off a weak spot in the rope too. Note that it is a temporary knot unless the eyes are fastened to the standing part of the rope on both ends. Follow this step-by-step guide to tying a Sheep Shank knot.

Step 1: Gather in as much rope as you need.

Step 2: Slip a Half Hitch over both ends of the loop.

Step 3: Tighten.

To unloose the sheepshank knot, simply pull the middles of the rope.

Double sheet bend knot

If the rope is not going to be subjected to continuous stress (pull), a good hitch is a Sheet Bend knot.  This knot is also used to tie together the ends of two ropes of equal or unequal diameters. It will also join wet rope and not slip or draw tight under load. It can be used to tie the ends of several ropes to the end of one rope. When a single rope is tied to multiple ropes, the bight is formed with the multiple ropes.

In the diagram below we have two ropes of equal size, but the principle is the same. Below is how to tie a Double sheet bend knot.

1. From behind, come through the bight and bend back behind it.
2. Pull the end back over the bight and through the first run.
3. Go back behind again and repeat.

Garrick Bend knot

The garrick bend knot is a type of knot that is commonly used for attaching two lines of different diameters. This knot is particularly useful for fishermen, as it can be used to tie a leader line to a mainline, or to attach a hook to a fishing line. The garrick bend knot is known for its strength and reliability, making it a preferred knot for many anglers.

This knot has a unique design that makes it more secure than other knots used for similar purposes. It is also relatively easy to tie, which is a bonus for those who are new to fishing or who don’t have much experience tying knots.

One of the main benefits of using a garrick bend knot is that it allows you to attach two lines of different diameters without compromising the strength of either line. This is important because it means that you can use a thinner, more flexible leader line without worrying about it breaking under the weight of a larger fish.

This knot forms a flat knot that will not impede the progress of the ropes when they move.

Follow these steps to tie a Garrick bend knot.

Step 1: Form a basic loop.

Step 2: Pass the end of the other rope under this loop.  Take the end over the first rope’s standing part, under its loose end, and over one side of the bight, under the second rope’s own part, and over the other side of the bight.

Step 3: When tightened, the ends come out on opposite sides of the knot.

Prusik knot

The Prusik knot ties a short rope around a longer rope (for example, a sling rope around a climbing rope) in such a manner that the short rope will slide on the climbing rope if no tension is applied and will hold if tension is applied on the short rope. The Prusik knot can be tied with an end of rope or bight of rope. When tied with an end of rope, the knot is finished off with a bowline. The nonslip nature of the Prusik knot on another rope allows the climbing of ropes with foot holds. It can also be used to anchor ropes or the end of a traction splint on a branch or ski pole.

Bowline and bowline finished with an overhand knot

Around-the-body bowline was the basic knot used for rescue for many years as it provided a loop, which could be placed around the body, that would not slip nor tighten up under strain. It has been replaced by the figure 8 in most applications as the figure 8 does not weaken the rope as much. Follow the steps below to tie a Bowline and bowline finished with an overhand knot.

Step 1: Place the loose end from right to left across the standing part (the part where the strain will be coming) leaving a loop of the size you need.

Step 2: Grip the end and standing part together with the right hand and twist downwards to the left (clockwise) for half a turn.  This will bring the end poking up through a small loop.

Step 3: Pass the end behind the standing part and down through the loop again.  Tighten.

Running Bowline (Noose) Knot

How to tie a knot with a loop? A Running Bowline produces a sliding loop (noose). This knot can be adjusted to change the size of the loop by sliding the knot up or down the rope. It is commonly used in sailing and rescue operations where a loop is needed to attach a rope to an object or person.

French Bowline Knot

Here’s another way to tie a knot with a loop. The French Bowline is useful for hoisting a person because it provides you two loops – one for the armpit and another for the thigh.  It starts the same as a simple Bowline but instead of passing the end behind the standing part (the part where the strain will be coming), you take it right round in front of it to make a second large loop.  Pass the end up through the small loop again, round the standing part, and back through “the hole” as you would for a simple Bowline.

Figure 8 and retraceable figure 8 Knots

The Figure 8 (and retraceable figure 8) knot is the main rescue knot in use today. It has the advantage of being stronger than the bowline and is easier to tie and check. Its one disadvantage is that when wet, it may be more difficult to untie than the bowline after being stressed. The figure 8 (or figure-of-eight) knot can be used as an anchor knot on fixed ropes. It can also be used to prevent the end of a rope from slipping through a fastening or loop in another rope when a knot larger than an overhand knot is needed.

Jug Knot

A Jug Knot is useful for creating a “handle” with which to carry or hang a water jug or other container.  It provides a secure holding and a loop to hang the bottle from. Follow the steps below to tie a Jug knot.

Monkey’s Fist knot

A Monkey’s Fist is a heavy knot that can be used to add weight to the end of a rope to be thrown or to make a handle, grip, or stop in the rope.  It can also be used to enclose a weighted object, such as a rock, and is vital in the construction of a bola weapon. Here’s how to tie a Monkey’s Fist knot.

Step 1: Wrap 3 or 4 winds of rope around your hand with the middle fingers slightly spread apart.

Step 2: Wrap the end of the line behind and around the 3 windings.  Hold the end of the line with your middle fingers clenched shut.

Step 3: Wrap another winding behind and around the 3 windings taking care not to overlap the first winding.  Then run the rope through the middle of the loop.

Step 4: Make 3 windings around the first set of windings taking care not to overlap the rope.

Step 5: Pull tight to complete the knot (you may have to work the knot tight).

Masthead Knot

Placed on the top of a pole or mast, the Masthead knot forms loops for guy lines to support the pole. The purpose of the masthead knot is to prevent the halyard from slipping off the top of the mast.

The halyard is the rope that is used to hoist the sail to the top of the mast. Without a masthead knot, the halyard can slip off the top of the mast, causing the sail to come crashing down. This can be dangerous for both the sailors and the boat.

Fisherman’s Knot

The Fisherman’s knot (aka Water knot) is used to tie two ropes of equal thickness together. It is used by fishermen to join fishing line and is very effective with small-diameter strings and twines. It is a strong and reliable knot that can withstand the tension and strain of fishing. Follow the steps below to tie a basic Fisherman’s knot.

Step 1: Tie an overhand knot around the second line.  Do not tighten the knot yet.  Take the second rope and tie an overhand knot around the first line.

Step 2: Tighten the knot.

Cat’s Paw Knot

A Cat’s Paw knot secures a line to a hook for lifting loads. It is a useful and versatile knot that is used for a variety of purposes, including:

1. Attaching a rope to an object: The cat’s paw knot is often used to attach a rope to an object such as a hook, ring, or post. It is a secure knot that can be untied easily when necessary.
2. Creating a loop in a rope: The cat’s paw knot can be used to create a loop in a rope that can be used for a variety of purposes, including securing a tarp or tent.
3. Tensioning a rope: The cat’s paw knot can be used to tension a rope, making it ideal for use in camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
4. Rescue operations: The cat’s paw knot is often used in rescue operations, particularly in situations where a person or animal needs to be lifted or lowered using a rope.

Follow these steps to tie a cat’s paw knot.

Step 1: Make a temporary loop in the rope for hooking onto and turn the loop upwards.

Step 2: Twist the two loops away from each other to form two small eye holes.  Insert a hook or other object into and through the small loops.

Honda Knot

A Honda knot forms a running loop or lasso. A Honda knot is a knot commonly used in fishing, archery, and other activities that require a loop tied in a line or cord. The knot is created by forming a small loop in the line, then passing the end of the line through the loop and pulling it tight to create a larger loop that can be used for various purposes.

In fishing, the Honda knot is used to attach the fishing line to a hook or lure, while in archery, it is used to create a loop in the bowstring for attaching an arrow.

Rope Tackle

The rope tackle knot is a type of knot that is commonly used for lifting heavy objects or applying tension to ropes. It is a simple but effective knot that allows for a mechanical advantage when pulling on a rope. The knot works by creating a loop in the rope and then wrapping a second rope around it. When tension is applied to the second rope, it tightens the loop and creates a pulley system, allowing for easier pulling of the primary rope.

The rope tackle knot is often used in various scenarios such as camping, sailing, and rescue operations. In camping, it is commonly used to hoist heavy bags or food up into trees to keep them safe from animals. In sailing, it can be used to hoist sails or to secure items on board the ship. In rescue operations, it is used to lift heavy objects or even people to safety.

The rope tackle is used to tighten lines or lift loads. It is a simple, effective alternative to pulleys and creates a 2:1 mechanical advantage. The toggle or stick shown in the drawing above prevents the loop from jamming.

Butterfly Knot

A butterfly knot is a knot used to form a fixed loop in the middle of a rope. It is created by forming two loops in the rope, one on top of the other, and then tying them together with a knot. The loop created by this knot is strong, secure, and does not slip.

The butterfly knot is often used in rock climbing, tree climbing, rescue work, and other activities where a secure loop is needed. It is commonly used to attach a rope to a harness, anchor point, or other fixed object. In rescue work, the butterfly knot can be used to create a loop to hold onto a person, while allowing them to remain upright and face forward.

The butterfly knot is also useful in situations where the loop may need to be untied easily after being subjected to a heavy load. It is designed so that the knot will remain in place under tension, but can be easily untied by pulling on the free end of the rope.

A butterfly knot, also known as a lineman’s loop, is also used to isolate a damaged section (by forming a fixed loop without access to the ends of the rope).

Note: Some rope knots tying guides call this a “bowline on a bight” knot. However, they are slightly different. See below.

Bowline on a Bight

A Bowline on a bight knot forms two fixed loops and can be tied without access to the ends of the rope. A Bowline on a Bight Knot is a type of knot that is commonly used in rock climbing, rescue operations, and other activities that require a strong and reliable loop. The knot creates a fixed loop that can be used to attach ropes, slings, or other equipment to an anchor point or to create a secure loop around a person’s body.

The Bowline on a Bight Knot is particularly useful in rescue situations where a person needs to be lifted or lowered, as it provides a secure and reliable attachment point that can support the weight of the person. It is also commonly used in rock climbing to attach ropes to anchors or to create a secure loop around a climber’s body.

Double Overhand Knot

A Double overhand knot is a sound knot for tying two thin lines together.

Step 1: Make an overhand knot on the end of one of the lines.

Step 2: Pass the other line through the knot and make an overhand knot with it around the standing part of the first line.

Image Credits

In-Article Image Credits

Rope knots tying guide chart via Wikipedia Comments with usage type - Public Domain. 1911
Double overhand knot via Wikimedia Commons with usage type - Creative Commons License

Featured Image Credit

How to tie a Double sheet bend knot via