Instructions for a Clove Hitch Knot

The clove hitch is one of the more basic knots, but its simplicity makes it a useful knot to know in a variety of situations. As an example of its versatility, the clove hitch is often used by climbers to secure non-climbing members of a party to a belay, and also to hitch a rope to an object in order to start a lashing. Many more applications are possible. Practice and understand this knot in both its variations and it will serve you well.

Things You'll Need

  • Rope
  • Anchor point to tie the knot around
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Instructions

  1. Standard Method

    • 1

      Pass the end of the rope around the anchor point.

    • 2

      Pass the rope around the part of the anchor point facing you, with the rope crossing over itself, forming a diagonal section.

    • 3

      Pass the rope behind the anchor point once more and pass the end of the rope underneath the loop formed by the diagonal section of rope that is facing you.

    • 4

      Pull the ends of the rope to tighten the knot. You should see two sections of rope going around the anchor point with a diagonal section between to form an N shape, and the two ends of the rope going in opposite directions.

    Alternative Method

    • 5

      Hold the rope at any point along its length with your thumb and forefinger of each hand, with your hands apart slightly to form a straight section of rope.

    • 6

      Form a loop by moving your right hand over to your left hand. A slight twist of the rope with your right thumb and forefinger will help you to do this more easily. The section of rope in your right hand should come to rest on top of the section of rope in your left. Secure this loop between your left thumb and forefinger.

    • 7

      Slide your right hand down the rope away from your left, and form an identical loop in the same way with your right hand.

    • 8

      Move the first loop over the second so that they align and place them over the anchor point. The anchor point should now be through the middle of both loops.

    • 9

      Pull the ends of the rope to tighten the knot.