Basic Knots - Animated Knots

Basic Knots

Choose a knot below, or scroll down for more information:  

Non-binding, quick and convenient stopper knot.

Used to tie rope around an object and back to itself.

Simple binding knot: first step of the Square (Reef) Knot.

Creates a loop that tightens when pulled.

The simplest of the Single-Strand Stopper Knots

Joins two ropes of unequal, or similar, size

Simple loop in rope's end - loosens when tail end is pulled.

Simple way to join two ropes made up of two Half Knots.

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Welcome to Basic Knots

Selection

The eight knots in this section are the most basic knots - the building blocks of knot tying. They illustrate the fundamental principles of knot tying. Many are also components of other knots or they provide the underlying structure. The Square Knot (Reef Knot) and Sheet Bend are the two basic methods of joining two ropes; and the Figure 8 underlies many other important knots.

Confusion

The terms Overhand Knot, Half Hitch, and Half Knot are often confused and frequently used as though they are interchangeable. Similarly with the Slip Knot and Noose. Their importance and their differences are explained for these five knots and cross-links are provided with each animation to facilitate quick comparison.

Other Sections

Many of these knots have critical uses in the various other sections of this website and, when space permits, these knots are repeated there.

Basic Knots

Stop End of Rope Fraying The simplest knot Figure 8 knot

Part of a Hitch Half hitch

Part of a Square Knot Half knot

Tie two ends together Square knot (reef knot) Best for ropes of different sizes

Temporary Stopper Knot Slip knot

Loop Which Tightens When Pulled Simple noose knot

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