Basic Knots

The seven basic knots covered on this page are:

  1. Reef (Square) Knot
  2. Clove Hitch
  3. Bowline
  4. Round Turn and Two Half Hitches
  5. Sheepshank
  6. Sheet Bend
  7. Figure of Eight Knot

If you feel you have mastered these are ready to move on, check the Advanced Knots.

Reef (Square) Knot

The Reef Knot, also called a Square Knot, is used to tie two ropes of equal thickness together. Reef knots can be untied easily and lay flat, which makes them useful for bandages and packages.

Clove Hitch

The Clove Hitch is a temporary knot

Bowline

The Bowline

Sheepshank

The Sheepshank knot is used for temporarily shortening and strengthening a length of rope.

Sheet Bend

The Sheet Bend is used to tie together two ropes of unequal thickness. It is also used to attach a flag to the flagpole halyards at the eye of the flag.

Figure of Eight Knot

The Figure of Eight Knot is used as a stopper knot, used in sailing.

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