How to Tie Fiador Knots

Traditionally used to make rope halters and horse gear, the fiador knot is a staple of cowboy culture. Though its appearance is intimidating, the knot really is just a series of four interwoven loops. When used to ride a horse, the knot typically rests on the neck under the horse's jaw. The knot's free ends run up the neck and past the ears into the loop in the headstall. The ends meet and are then tied as a sheet bend behind the horse's head.

Things You'll Need

  • Six feet of heavy cord or rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay the rope in a long U shape. Pass the left hand strand beneath the right one, creating two loops.

    • 2

      Pull the left loose end under the point where the two loops intersect, then pass it through the larger of the two loops from the far right side of the knot.

    • 3

      Pass the loose end back under all 3 vertical strands, from left to right.

    • 4

      Wrap the loose end over and under the farthest right strand of vertical rope and pull down.

    • 5

      Pull the loose end back up, under the smaller, center loop. Lead the rope under the far right piece of rope.

    • 6

      Bring the rope completely behind all vertical ropes from right to left, forming an upside down U to the left side of the knot.

    • 7

      Pass the strand over the far left loop and under the knot's center.

    • 8

      Pull the end up alongside the other vertical ropes on the far left of the knot. Tug both ends to tighten.