KNOTS

Sailing requires knowing how to tie a variety of knots, and chosing one most appropriate for specific situations.
Joining a line to another line, tying a line to a ring, tying up to a piling or post and to a cleat.

Some Knots for Sailing Applications

Click knot to view animated construction.

Bowline

Round Turn and Two Half Hitches

Cleat Knot

Rolling Hitch

Sheet Bend

Reef Knot

Figure Eight

Constrictor

Bowline on the Bight

Anchor Bend

Clove Hitch

Eye Splice

Chain Splice

Buntline

Trucker's Knot

Carrick



Good sailors take pride in their ability to chose and tie knots. For practice, a section of rope six feet long with a diameter of 1/2" is a good size. Tie each knot several times to make a mental picture of the sequence. With practice you'll be able to tie a knot without thinking about it.

NOTE:
The end of the line that you work with in tying knots is called the "Bitter End." The main length of line is the "Standing Part."