Square knot

What it's for

Use a square knot (sailors call it a reef knot) when both ends of one rope or strip of cloth meet around something: tying off a bandage or sling, closing a bundle of firewood, or tying up a sail. It lies flat, so it's comfortable against skin.

How to tie it

New to rope words like working end and bight? See rope words.

1. 1

   Step 1: Right over left, and under

   Hold one end in each hand. Cross the right end over the left end, then wrap it under and back up — the same first move as tying your shoes.

2. 2

   Step 2: Left over right, and under

   Bring the ends up toward each other. This time cross the left end over the right end, and wrap it under and back up.

3. 3

   Step 3: Pull it snug

   Pull both ends and both standing parts at the same time. The knot closes into two linked loops lying flat.

Check your knot

• Each rope's end and standing part come out side by side, on the same side of the knot.
• If the ends stick out crosswise, you tied a granny knot, which slips. Untie it and make sure the second cross goes the opposite way from the first.
• To untie it fast, grab an end and the standing part next to it and pull them apart. The knot flips into a straight piece and slides off.

Practice ideas

• Tie it with your eyes closed, then behind your back.
• Use it for something real: a triangle-bandage sling, a bundle of kindling, or a stuff sack's drawstring.
• Teach it to someone else. Explaining the "right over left, left over right" rule is the best test that you know it.