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-	{{Knots Header}}	+	{{Knots Header}}{{TOCright}}
-	__NOTOC__	+	Here are the '''basic knots''' [[Cub Scout Leader Portal|Cub Scouts]] and [[Boy Scout Portal|Boy Scouts]] learn. These few knots are the only knots you have to know to go all the way to Eagle. Cross-references are provided to the [[Wolf]], [[Bear]], [[Webelos]], [[Tenderfoot]], [[Second Class]], and [[First Class]] requirements.
-		+
-	{| border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" align="left" style="background: #F9F9F9; border-collapse: collapse; border-color: lightgrey; margin-right: 2em;"	+
-	| align="left" |	+
-	|-	+
-	|| <center>'''Contents'''</center>	+
-	{| border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" align="left" style="background: #F9F9F9;" width="120"	+
-	|-	+
-	[[Overhand knot]]<br>	+
-	[[Square knot]]<br>	+
-	[[Bowline]]<br>	+
-	[[Sheet bend]]<br>	+
-	[[Slip knot]]<br>	+
-	{| border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" align="left" style="background: #F9F9F9;" width="120"	+
-	|-	+
-	[[Two half-hitches]]<br>	+
-	[[Taut-line hitch]]<br>	+
-	[[Clove hitch]]<br>	+
-	[[Timber hitch]]<br>	+
-	[[Whipping and Fusing]]<br>	+
-	|}	+
-	|}	+
-	|}	+
-	Here are the basic knots [[Cub Scout Leader Portal|Cub Scouts]] and [[Boy Scout Portal|Boy Scouts]] learn. These few knots are the only knots you have to know to go all the way to Eagle. Cross-references are provided to the [[Wolf]], [[Bear]], [[Webelos]], [[Tenderfoot]], [[Second Class]], and [[First Class]] requirements.	+
	Many knots below have very good Lesson Videos. Here is a general one for Scout Knots:		Many knots below have very good Lesson Videos. Here is a general one for Scout Knots:
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	{{Clear}}		{{Clear}}
-	==Overhand knot==	+	= Basic Knots =
-	[[Image:Overhand-Knot.gif|frame|left]]{{Shortcut|[[Overhand knot]]}}	+
-	The Overhand knot is used in other knots including the [[Knot#Square knot|Square knot]] which is two Overhand knots. The overhand knot can be used temporarily but can untie very easily if tied around something. The overhand knot can be used as a stopper knot and can keep a rope from fraying or unraveling but the [[Special_Knots#Figure_Eight|Figure Eight]] is a much better stopper knot.	+
-	;Required for:	+	{{include|Overhand knot}}
-	* [[Wolf Electives]] 17a. Learn to tie an '''overhand knot''' and a square knot.	+
-	;Instructions
-	Make a loop and go through it.
-	The Overhand knot is one of the [[Forty Knots]].	+	{{include|Square knot}}
-	{{clear}}{{Top}}	+
-	==Square knot==
-	[[Image:Square-Knot.gif|frame|right|<center>'''Square Knot'''</center>]]{{Shortcut|[[Square knot]]}}
-	[[Image:Granny_Knot.gif|frame|right|<center>'''Granny Knot'''</center>]]
-	{{ABOK|# 1402, p 258}} Ashly states that: '''''"There have probably been more lives lost as a result of using a square knot as a bend (to tie two ropes together) than from the failure of any other half dozen knots combined." The [[Sheet Bend]] is as easy to tie and untie
-	{{quote-source|The square knot is also known as the joining knot because it can join two ropes together and because it is the first knot Scouts learn when they join the BSA. It has many uses-from securing bundles, packages, and the sails of ships to tying the ends of bandages.
-	To tie a square knot, hold one rope end in each hand. Pass the right end over and under the rope in your left hand and pull it snug. Next, pass the rope now in your left hand over and under the one now in your right, and pull it snug. Remember, '''right over left, left over right.'''|[[Boy Scout Handbook]] p. 8}}	+	{{include|Granny knot}}
-	'''Note: The Square knot comes untied easily and is not as strong as a [[Knot#Sheet bend|Sheet bend]].
-	;Required for:	+	{{include|Two half-hitches}}
-	* [[Wolf Electives]] 17a. Learn to tie an overhand knot and a '''square knot'''.	+
-	* [[Bear]] 22b. Tie a '''square knot''', bowline, sheet bend, two half-hitches, and slip knot. Tell how each knot is used.	+
-	* [[Outdoorsman|Webelos Outdoorsman]] #11. ...Show how to tie a ''square knot'' and explain how it is used.	+
-	* [[Arrow of Light Award|Webelos Arrow of Light]] #2 ''Tie the joining knot (square knot).''	+
-	* [[Scout]] #6: ''Demonstrate tying the '''square knot''' (a joining knot).''	+
-	* [[Small-Boat Sailing]] #7a: [[Square knot|Square (Reef) knot]] - [[Clove hitch]] - [[Two half-hitches]] - [[Bowline]] - [[Cleat hitch]] - [[Figure Eight]]	+
-	* [[Apprentice|Sea Scout Apprentice]] #5. [[Square knot]] - [[Bowline]] - [[Clove hitch]] - [[Sheet bend]] - [[Two half-hitches]] - [[Figure Eight]] - [[Cleat hitch]]	+
-	;Instructions
-	Right over left, left over right, makes a knot tidy, and tight.
-	The Square knot is one of the [[Forty Knots]].	+	{{include|Taut-line hitch}}
-	;Granny knot
-	When your shoes keep coming untied, it is because you are tying Granny knots instead of Square knots. The Granny knot is given to show '''''what not to do'''''. The Granny knot will come untied almost immediately and is not used for any Boy Scout application.
-	;Instructions	+	{{include|Bowline}}
-	Right over left, right over left, makes a knot ugly and WRONG.	+
-	The Granny knot is one of the [[Forty Knots]].
-	;Lesson Videos	+	{{include|Sheet bend}}
-	* [http://www.animatedknots.com/reefscouting/index.php Grog's Animated Knots: Reef (Square)] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/123497_about-the-square-knot.htm Video: About the Square Knot] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/123498_tying-square-knots.htm Video: Square Knots] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/123499_different-ways-tie-square-knots.htm Video: Different Ways to Tie Square Knots] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/131242_tying-square-knots-2.htm Video: Square Knots] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to-tie-square-knot/ Wonder How To Video: Square Knot] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-square-knots-with-animated-knot-tying-help-266051/ Wonder How To Video: Square Knots] - [http://www.animatedknots.com/shoelace/index.php Grog's Animated Knots: Shoelace Bow] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-a-standard-shoelace-knot-265513/ Wonder How To Video: Standard Shoelace Knot] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-a-thief-knot-266587/ Wonder How To Video: Thief Knot]	+
-	{{clear}}{{Top}}	+
-	==Bowline==
-	[[Image:Bowline.gif|frame|right|<center>Bowline</center>]]{{Shortcut|[[Bowline]]}}
-	{{ ABOK|# 1010, p 186}} {{Grog|The Bowline makes a reasonably secure loop in the end of a piece of rope. It has many uses, e.g., to fasten a mooring line to a ring or a post. Under load, it does not slip or bind. With no load it can be untied easily. It's principle shortcoming is that it cannot be tied, or untied, when there is a load on the standing end. It should therefore be avoided when, for example, a mooring line may have to be released under load. Two bowlines can be linked together to join two ropes.}}
-	{{quote-source|Bowline knot – rescue knot, most useful of knots because it forms a loop that will not slip and is easy to untie. Use it to attach a cord to a pack frame, tie a rope through a grommet of a tent, secure a line to a canoe, and in rescue situations, and in a thousand other ways. Learn to tie the bowline around a post and in the free end of a rope. With practice, you can even tie it with one hand.
-	Make a small overhand loop in the standing part of a rope. Bring the rope end up through the loop, around behind the standing part, and back down into the loop. Tighten the bowline by pulling the standing part away from the loop.|[[Boy Scout Handbook]] pp. 148-149}}	+	{{include|Slip knot}}
-	;Required for:
-	* [[Bear]] 22b, [[Small-Boat Sailing]] #7a, [[Apprentice|Sea Scout Apprentice]] #5.
-	;Instructions	+	{{include|Clove hitch}}
-	Make a loop (top to you). The rabbit goes out of the hole, around the tree, and back into the hole.	+
-	The Bowline is one of the [[Forty Knots]].
-	;Lesson Videos	+	{{include|Timber hitch}}
-	* [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to-tie-a-bowlin-knot/ Wonder How To Video: Bowline Knot] - [http://www.animatedknots.com/bowlinescouting/index.php Grog's Animated Knots: Bowline] - [http://www.animatedknots.com/bowlineclimbing/index.php Grog's Animated Knots: Bowline] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/123792_tying-bowline-knots.htm Video: Bowline Knots] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/131239_tying-bowline-knots-2.htm Video: Bowline Knots]	+
-	*[http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-the-running-bowline-knot-177164/ Wonder How To Video: Running Bowline Knot]	+
-	*[http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-a-french-bowline-knot-with-animated-help-266005/ Wonder How To Video: French Bowline Knot]	+
-	* [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-a-portugese-bowline-knot-for-sailing-251415/ Wonder How To Video: Portugese Bowline Knot]	+
-	*[http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-a-spanish-bowline-knot-266556/ Wonder How To Video: Spanish Bowline Knot]	+
-	*[http://www.expertvillage.com/video/85730_rope-bends-bowline.htm Video: Bowline Bend] -	+
-	;One-Handed Bowline
-	{{ ABOK|# 1010, p 186}} {{Grog|The One Handed Bowline is a useful and quick way to tie a bowline when the other hand is occupied or injured. There are three main steps. 1. Hold the short end and tie a half hitch with your whole forearm. 2. Pass the short end round the standing end. 3. Still holding the short end, withdraw your hand from the loop.}}
-	* [http://www.animatedknots.com/bowlineonehand/index.php Grog's Animated Knots: One Handed Bowline] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-the-one-handed-bowline-knot-for-climbing-265452/ Wonder How To Video: One Handed Bowline Knot]
-	{{clear}}{{Top}}
-	==Sheet bend==	+	{{include|Whipping and Fusing rope}}
-	[[Image:Sheet_Bend.gif|frame|left|<center>Sheet Bend</center>]]{{Shortcut|[[Sheet bend]]}}	+
-	{{ABOK|# 1431, p. 262}} Ashly states that the Sheet Bend: '''''"...serves almost every purpose well, and unties readily without damaging the rope."'''''	+
-	{{Grog|The Sheet Bend is recommended for joining two ropes of unequal size... It works equally well if the ropes are of the same size.}} The Sheet bend is much more secure than a [[Square knot]].	+	= See also =
		+	{{Knots by Use}}
		+	{{Knot Links}}
-	;Required for:
-	* [[Bear]] # 22b, [[Scout]], [[Apprentice|Sea Scout Apprentice]] #5.
-	;Instructions
-	*Make a loop in one end. The rabbit goes out of the hole, around the tree and back under his path.
-	The Sheet bend is one of the [[Forty Knots]].	+	{{Printer-friendly|<table><tr><td>There are some great PDFs you can print:</td><td>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>
		+	<li>[[Media:Step-By-Step-Knots-11-Basic-Scout-Knots.pdf|Step-By-Step Knots]]: 11 Basic Knots fit on the front and back of one page. {{PDF}}
		+	<li>[[Media:Six-Boy-Scout-Knots.pdf|Six Boy Scout Knots]] by John Geffre {{PDF}}
		+	<li>[[Media:All_lower_rank_knots.pdf|All lower rank knots]] {{PDF}}
		+	<li>[[Media:When_to_use_knots_lashings.pdf|When to use knots lashings]] {{PDF}}
		+	</td></tr></table>|auto}}
-	;Lesson Videos	+	= External links =
-	* [http://www.animatedknots.com/sheetbendscouting/index.php Grog's Animated Knots: Sheet Bend] - - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/85719_rope-bends-sheet.htm Video: Sheet Bend] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/85720_rope-bends-double-sheet.htm Video: Double Sheet Bend] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/123511_tying-double-sheet-bend-knots.htm Video: Double Sheet Bend Knots] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-the-sheet-bend-knot-double-sheet-bend-knot-265382/ Wonder How To Video: Sheet Bend Knot & Double Sheet Bend Knot] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-a-double-sheet-bend-knot-266572/ Wonder How To Video: Double Sheet Bend Knot] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-the-double-sheet-bend-knot-177154/ Wonder How To Video: Double Sheet Bend Knot]	+
-	{{clear}}{{Top}}	+
-		+
-	==Slip knot==	+
-	[[Image:Slip Knot.gif|frame|right|<center>Slip Knot</center>]]{{Shortcut|[[Slip knot]]}}	+
-	The Slip knot is also called the Running Hitch.	+
-		+
-	;Required for:	+
-	* [[Bear]] 22b	+
-		+
-	;Instructions	+
-	Make a loop. Pull a loop up through the loop. Pull tight.	+
-		+
-	The Running Hitch is one of the [[Forty Knots]].	+
-		+
-	;Lesson Videos	+
-	* [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-a-slip-knot-177165/ Wonder How To Video: Slip Knot] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to-tie-a-slip-knot/ Wonder How To Video: Slip Knot] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-the-slip-knot-for-boating-251743/ Wonder How To Video: Slip Knot] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/123495_tying-slipknots.htm Video: Slipknots] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/15015_knot-tying-slippery-hitch.htm Video: Slip Knot & a Slippery Hitch Knot]	+
-	{{clear}}{{Top}}	+
-		+
-	==Two half-hitches==	+
-	[[Image:Two_Half_Hitches.gif|left|frame|<center>Two Half-Hitches</center>]]{{Shortcut|[[Two half-hitches]]}}	+
-	{{quote-source|Use two half-hitches to tie a rope around a post. Pass the end of the rope around the post. Bring the end over and under the body of the rope (known as the standing part),then back through the loop thus formed. That makes a half hitch. Take the end around the standing part a second time and tie another half hitch. Pull it snug.|[[Boy Scout Handbook]] p. 36}}	+
-		+
-	'''The Two half-hitches knot is only secure when it is tight against the post.	+
-		+
-	;Required for:	+
-	* [[Bear]] 22b, [[Outdoorsman|Webelos Outdoorsman]] #11, [[Tenderfoot]] #4b, [[Small-Boat Sailing]] #7a, [[Apprentice|Sea Scout Apprentice]] #5.	+
-		+
-	;Instructions	+
-	Loop over the top and pull through the hole to make a Half hitch. Make a second Half hitch on the outside. Pull tight.	+
-		+
-	The Two half-hitches is one of the [[Forty Knots]].	+
-		+
-	;Lesson Videos	+
-	* [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/131235_tying-two-half-hitch-knots.htm Video: Two Half Hitches]	+
-	{{clear}}{{Top}}	+
-		+
-	==Taut-line hitch==	+
-	[[Image:Tautline_Hitch.gif|right|frame|<center>Taut-Line Hitch</center>]]{{Shortcut|[[Taut-line hitch]]}}	+
-	{{ABOK|# 1735, p. 298}} {{Grog|The Taut Line Hitch or Rolling Hitch attaches a rope (usually smaller) to another (usually larger) when the line of pull is almost parallel. It can also be used to attach a rope to a pole.}}	+
-	{{quote-source|The taut-line hitch is tied to a line that is tight, or taut. Use it to tighten or loosen a tent guyline by pushing the hitch up or down. Here's how:	+
-		+
-	Pass the line around the tent stake. Bring the end under and over the standing part and twice through the loop you have formed. Again bring the pore end under, over, and through the loop, but this time farther up the standing part. Work any slack out of the knot, then slide the hitch to adjust the tension on the line.|[[Boy Scout Handbook]] p. 37}}	+
-		+
-	;Required for:	+
-	* [[Outdoorsman|Webelos Outdoorsman]] #11. Demonstrate setting up a tent or dining fly using two half-hitches and a ''taut-line hitch''. Show how to tie a square knot and explain how it is used.	+
-	* [[Tenderfoot]] #4b. Demonstrate you know how to tie the following knots and tell what their uses are: two half hitches and the '''taut-line hitch'''.	+
-	* [[Small-Boat Sailing]] #7a: [[Square knot|Square (Reef) knot]] - [[Clove hitch]] - [[Two half-hitches]] - [[Bowline]] - [[Cleat hitch]] - [[Figure Eight]]	+
-		+
-	;Instructions	+
-	Loop over the top and pull through the hole to make a Half hitch. Loop over the top and through the hole again. One last Half hitch on the outside. Pull tight.	+
-		+
-	The Taut-Line Hitch is one of the [[Forty Knots]].	+
-		+
-	;Lesson Videos	+
-	* [http://www.animatedknots.com/rollinghitchscouting/index.php Grog's Animated Knots: Rolling Hitch] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-a-rolling-hitch-knot-266576/ Wonder How To Video: Rolling Hitch Knot] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-the-tautline-hitch-knot-177149/ Wonder How To Video: Tautline Hitch Knot] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-the-tautline-hitch-knot-for-camping-251747/ Wonder How To Video: Tautline Hitch Knot For Camping] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/127073_tying-taut-line-hitch.htm Video: Taut Line Hitch] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/127075_uses-taut-line-hitch.htm Video: Uses for a Taut Line Hitch] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/131236_tying-taught-line-hitch-knots.htm Video: Taught Line Hitch Knots]	+
-	{{clear}}{{Top}}	+
-		+
-	==Clove hitch==	+
-	[[Image:Clove_Hitch.gif|frame|left|<center>Clove Hitch<br>(Method 1)</center>]][[Image:Clove_Hitch2.gif|right|frame|<center>Clove Hitch<br>(Method 2)</center>]]{{Shortcut|[[Clove hitch]]}}	+
-	{{ABOK|# 1245, p. 224}} {{Grog|The Clove Hitch was, originally, included here with the intention of condemning it. It does have two major failings: it slips and, paradoxically, can also bind.}}	+
-	{{quote-source|Clove comes from the word cleave meaning “to split”, clove hitch is split into two parts like the foot of a deer or a sheep – used to end lashings… form the first half hitch of the clove hitch by taking a bight (loop) around the pole and then across itself.	+
-		+
-	Form the second half hitch of the clove hitch by taking the second bight around the pole and tucking the end of the rope under the rope between the two loops. When pulled tight, the clove hitch should look like an X. The difference between a clove hitch and two half-hitches is that a clove hitch is tied around an object and two half-hitches are tied around the rope’s own standing part.	+
-		+
-	An alternative way of tying a clove hitch it to make and overhand loop in the rope. Then make a second overhand loop next to the first loop. Next, without turning over either loop, place the first loop on top of the second loop. Finally, place the two loops over the end of a pole or around the neck of the bear bag and pull tight.|[[Boy Scout Handbook]] p. 139}}	+
-		+
-	;Required for:	+
-	:* [[First Class]] #7b, [[Small-Boat Sailing]] #7a, [[Apprentice|Sea Scout Apprentice]] #5.	+
-		+
-	;Instructions	+
-	Loop over the top. Loop around again below. Pull through the hole.	+
-		+
-	The Clove hitch is one of the [[Forty Knots]].	+
-		+
-	;Lesson Videos	+
-	* [http://www.animatedknots.com/clovescouting/index.php Grog's Animated Knots: Clove Hitch] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-a-clove-hitch-knot-with-a-knot-tying-animation-265459/ Wonder How To Video: Clove Hitch Knot] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-the-clove-hitch-boy-scouts-knot-265367/ Wonder How To Video: Clove Hitch Boy Scout Knot] - [http://www.animatedknots.com/cloveclimbing/index.php Grog's Animated Knots: Clove Hitch] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/127078_how-tie-clove-hitch-knot.htm Video: Clove Hitch] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/127079_various-ways-tie-clove-hitch.htm Video: Various Ways to Tie a Clove Hitch] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/131243_tying-clove-hitch-knots.htm Video: Clove Hitch Knots]	+
-	{{clear}}{{Top}}	+
-		+
-	==Timber hitch==	+
-	[[Image:Timber_Hitch.gif|frame|left|<center>Timber hitch</center>]]{{Shortcut|[[Timber hitch]]}}	+
-	{{ABOK|#1665, p. 290}} {{Grog|The Timber Hitch is described by as much used for handling cargo "... for which it is very convenient, as it practically falls apart when pull ceases." It is also useful when towing a spar or log either afloat or on land. When used for this purpose, the Timber Hitch is often placed near the center of the spar and a separate half-hitch is dropped over the end of the spar to act as a guide.}}	+
-	{{quote-source|The timber hitch is the knot to use for dragging a log across the ground. It is also the knot that starts a [[diagonal lashing]].|[[Boy Scout Handbook]] p. 138}}	+
-	;Required for:	+
-	* [[First Class]] #7b.	+
-		+
-	;Instructions	+
-	{{quote-source|Here's how to tie a timber hitch:	+
-		+
-	Pass the end of the rope around the log. Loop the end around the starting part of the rope, then wrap the end around itself three or more times. Tighten the hitch against the log.|[[Boy Scout Handbook]] p. 138}}	+
-		+
-	The Timber hitch is one of the [[Forty Knots]].	+
-		+
-	;Lesson Videos	+
-	* [http://www.animatedknots.com/timber/index.php Grog's Animated Knots: Timber Hitch] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-a-timber-hitch-lumberman-s-or-countryman-s-knot-265474/ Wonder How To Video: Timber Hitch (Lumberman's Or Countryman's Knot] - [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-tie-the-timber-hitch-boy-scouts-knot-265366/ Wonder How To Video: Timber Hitch Boy Scout Knot] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/127082_tying-a-timber-hitch.htm Video: Timber Hitch] - [http://www.expertvillage.com/video/131241_tying-timber-hitch-knots.htm Video: Tying a Timber Hitch]	+
-		+
-	{{clear}}{{Top}}	+
-		+
-	==Whipping and Fusing==	+
-	{| class="wikitable" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" align="left" valign ="top"	+
-	|-	+
-	| valign ="top" width = "330"| [[Image:Whipping.gif|frame|left|<center>'''Whipping'''</center>]]	+
-	| valign ="top" |	+
-	'''Whipping:'''<br>	+
-	If the cut end is left un-whipped, the rope will fray or untwist, and loose strength. Whip the ends of ropes to prevent fraying and prolongs the life of the rope.	+
-		+
-	;Instructions	+
-	Lay twine (or dental floss) on rope to form a loop. Wrap the twine around with neat, tight bindings until the length of whipping is two to three times the diameter of the rope. Pull the working end of twine through the loop. Pull hard on the other end of the twine to draw tight under the wraps. Cut off loose ends and roll the whipping under foot.	+
-		+
-	'''Fusing:'''<br>	+
-	Tape the nylon, polyester, polypropylene rope around the area to be cut. Cut in middle of the tape leaving tape intact on each side. When cutting these fibers with a pocket knife or scissors, the cut ends should be fused with a match or candle flame to prevent untwisting. ''Natural fiber ropes do not fuse.''	+
-		+
-	'''Required for:'''	+
-	* [[Bear]] #22, [[Outdoorsman|Webelos Outdoorsman]] #10, [[Tenderfoot]] #4a.	+
-		+
-	;Lesson Videos	+
-	* [http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to-whip-and-fuse-the-end-of-a-rope/ Whip and fuse the end of a rope]	+
-		+
-	| valign ="top" | [[Image:Fusing.gif|frame|right|<center>'''Fusing'''</center>]]	+
-	|}	+
-	{{clear}}{{Top}}	+
-		+
-	==External links==	+
-	{{Knot Links}}	+
-	* [http://www.geocities.com/roo_two/clovehitch.html Notable knot Index] - shows quick method of tying	+
-	* [[Media:Step-By-Step-Knots-11-Basic-Scout-Knots.pdf|Step-By-Step knots]] {{PDF}}: 11 Basic knots fit on the front and back of one page.	+
-	* [[Media:Six-Boy-Scout-Knots.pdf|Six Boy Scout knots]] {{PDF}} by John Geffre	+
-	* [[Media:All_lower_rank_knots.pdf|All lower rank knots]] {{PDF}} (2MB PDF)	+
-	* [[Media:When_to_use_knots_lashings.pdf|When to use knots lashings]] {{PDF}} (152K PDF)	+
	* [http://www.fieggen.com/shoelace/standardknot.htm Ian's Shoelace Site]		* [http://www.fieggen.com/shoelace/standardknot.htm Ian's Shoelace Site]
	* [http://www.geocities.com/roo_two/knotindex.html The Notable knot Index]		* [http://www.geocities.com/roo_two/knotindex.html The Notable knot Index]
	[[Category:Knots]]		[[Category:Knots]]
-	[[Category:Scoutcraft]]

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Current revision

Animated Knots show you how to tie Basic Knots, Fishing Knots, Sailing Knots, Climbing Knots, Forty Knots,
Special Knots, and Advanced Knots, for Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class.

Contents 1 Basic Knots 1.1 Overhand knot 1.2 Square knot 1.3 Granny knot 1.4 Two half-hitches 1.5 Taut-line hitch 1.6 Bowline 1.7 Sheet bend 1.8 Slip knot 1.9 Clove hitch 1.10 Timber hitch 1.11 Whipping and Fusing rope 2 See also 3 External links

Here are the basic knots Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts learn. These few knots are the only knots you have to know to go all the way to Eagle. Cross-references are provided to the Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class requirements.

Many knots below have very good Lesson Videos. Here is a general one for Scout Knots:

• Video: Scouting Knots

Basic Knots

Overhand knot

Main article: Overhand knot

Overhand knot
Names	Overhand knot, Thumb knot
Typical use	Extreme jamming
Caveat	Spills if the standing part is pulled forcibly in the wrong direction.
Releasing	Extreme jamming
Category	Stopper knots
Group	Basic knots
Related	Overhand loop, Figure-eight knot, Angler's loop, Fisherman's knot, Water knot

The Overhand knot is used in other knots including the Square knot which is two Overhand knots. The overhand knot can be used temporarily but can untie very easily if tied around something. The overhand knot can be used as a stopper knot and can keep a rope from fraying or unraveling but the Figure Eight is a much better stopper knot.

Required for

• Wolf Electives 17a. Learn to tie an overhand knot and a square knot.

Instructions

1. Make a loop and go through it.

Lesson Videos

Notes

• The Overhand knot is one of the Forty Knots.

Square knot

Main article: Square knot

Square knot
Names	Square knot, Reef knot
Typical use	Joining two ends of a single line to bind around an object.
Caveat	Not secure as a bend. Spills easily if one of the free ends is pulled outward. Does not hold well if the two lines are not the same thickness.
Releasing	Jamming
Category	Binding knots
Group	Basic knots
Related	Thief knot, Granny knot, Grief knot, Surgeon's knot

“ The square knot is also known as the joining knot because it can join two ropes together and because it is the first knot Scouts learn when they join the BSA. It has many uses-from securing bundles, packages, and the sails of ships to tying the ends of bandages. ”

— Boy Scout Handbook p. 8

“ There have probably been more lives lost as a result of using a square knot as a bend (to tie two ropes together) than from the failure of any other half dozen knots combined." The Sheet Bend is as easy to tie and untie. ”

— See The Ashley Book of Knots # 1402, p 258.

Required for

• Wolf Electives 17a. Learn to tie an overhand knot and a square knot.
• Bear 22b. Tie a square knot, bowline, sheet bend, two half-hitches, and slip knot. Tell how each knot is used.
• Webelos Outdoorsman #11. ...Show how to tie a square knot and explain how it is used.
• Webelos Arrow of Light #2 Tie the joining knot (square knot).
• Scout #6: Demonstrate tying the square knot (a joining knot).
• Small-Boat Sailing #7a: Square (Reef) knot - Clove hitch - Two half-hitches - Bowline - Cleat hitch - Figure Eight
• Sea Scout Apprentice #5. Square knot - Bowline - Clove hitch - Sheet bend - Two half-hitches - Figure Eight - Cleat hitch

Instructions

1. Hold one rope end in each hand.
2. Pass the right end over and under the rope in your left hand and pull it snug.
3. Pass the rope now in your left hand over and under the one now in your right, and pull it snug.

Lesson Videos

• Grog's Animated Knots: Reef (Square) - Video: About the Square Knot - Video: Square Knots - Video: Different Ways to Tie Square Knots - Video: Square Knots - Wonder How To Video: Square Knot - Wonder How To Video: Square Knots

Notes

• Remember: "Right over left, left over right, makes a knot tidy, and tight."
• The Square knot comes untied easily and is not as strong as a Sheet bend.
• The Overhand knot is one of the Forty Knots.

Granny knot

Main article: Granny knot

Granny knot
Names	Granny knot,
Typical use	To show what not to do.
Caveat	Should not be used as a bend. Inferior to reef knot for binding purposes, it can release suddenly and unpredictably.
Releasing	Often jams
Category	Binding knots
Group	Basic knots
Related	Square knot, Thief knot, Grief knot

When your shoes keep coming untied, it is because you are tying Granny knots instead of Square knots. The Granny knot is given to show what not to do. The Granny knot will come untied almost immediately and is not used for any Boy Scout application.

Required for

Instructions

1. Right over left, right over left, makes a knot ugly and WRONG.

Lesson Videos

• Grog's Animated Knots: Shoelace Bow - Wonder How To Video: Standard Shoelace Knot - Wonder How To Video: Thief Knot

Notes

• Remember: "Right over left, left over right, makes a knot tidy, and tight."
• The Square knot comes untied easily and is not as strong as a Sheet bend.
• The Granny knot is one of the Forty Knots.

Two half-hitches

Main article: Two half-hitches

Two half-hitches
Names	Two half-hitches, Clove hitch over itself
Typical use	General-purpose hitch
Caveat
Releasing	Non-jamming
Category	Hitch knots
Group	Basic knots
Related

“ Use two half-hitches to tie a rope around a post. Pass the end of the rope around the post. Bring the end over and under the body of the rope (known as the standing part), then back through the loop thus formed. That makes a half hitch. Take the end around the standing part a second time and tie another half hitch. Pull it snug. ”

— Boy Scout Handbook p. 36

Required for

• Bear 22b
• Webelos Outdoorsman #11
• Tenderfoot #4b
• Small-Boat Sailing #7a
• Sea Scout Apprentice #5

Instructions

1. Loop over the top and pull through the hole to make a Half hitch.
2. Make a second Half hitch on the outside.
3. Pull tight.

Lesson Videos

• Video: Two Half Hitches

Notes

• The Two half-hitches knot is only secure when it is tight against the post.
• Two half-hitches is one of the Forty Knots.

Taut-line hitch

Main article: Taut-line hitch

Taut-line hitch
Names	Taut-line hitch, Adjustable hitch, Rigger's Hitch, Midshipman's Hitch, Tent-line hitch, Tent hitch
Typical use
Caveat
Releasing
Category	Hitch knots
Group	Basic knots
Related	Two half-hitches, Rolling hitch, Trucker's hitch

“ The taut-line hitch is tied to a line that is tight, or taut. Use it to tighten or loosen a tent guyline by pushing the hitch up or down. Here's how: Pass the line around the tent stake. Bring the end under and over the standing part and twice through the loop you have formed. Again bring the pore end under, over, and through the loop, but this time farther up the standing part. Work any slack out of the knot, then slide the hitch to adjust the tension on the line. ”

— Boy Scout Handbook p. 37

“ The Taut Line Hitch or Rolling Hitch attaches a rope (usually smaller) to another (usually larger) when the line of pull is almost parallel. It can also be used to attach a rope to a pole. ”

— Grog

See The Ashley Book of Knots # 1735, p. 298.

Required for

• Webelos Outdoorsman #11. Demonstrate setting up a tent or dining fly using two half-hitches and a taut-line hitch. Show how to tie a square knot and explain how it is used.
• Tenderfoot #4b. Demonstrate you know how to tie the following knots and tell what their uses are: two half hitches and the taut-line hitch.
• Small-Boat Sailing #7a: Square (Reef) knot - Clove hitch - Two half-hitches - Bowline - Cleat hitch - Figure Eight

Instructions

1. Loop over the top and pull through the hole to make a Half hitch.
2. Loop over the top and through the hole again.
3. One last Half hitch on the outside.
4. Pull tight.

Lesson Videos

• Grog's Animated Knots: Rolling Hitch - Wonder How To Video: Rolling Hitch Knot - Wonder How To Video: Tautline Hitch Knot - Wonder How To Video: Tautline Hitch Knot For Camping - Video: Taut Line Hitch - Video: Uses for a Taut Line Hitch - Video: Taught Line Hitch Knots

Notes

• The Taut-Line Hitch is one of the Forty Knots.

Bowline

Main article: Bowline

Bowline
Names	Bowline, Boling knot (archaic)
Typical use	Making a fixed loop in the end of a line.
Caveat	Although widely considered a reliable knot, it may not hold when tied in certain materials or loading conditions.
Releasing	Non-jamming
Category	Loop knots
Group	Basic knots
Related	Sheet bend, Double bowline, Bowline on a bight, Water bowline, Yosemite bowline, Spanish bowline, Portuguese bowline, Triple bowline, Running bowline

“ Bowline knot – rescue knot, most useful of knots because it forms a loop that will not slip and is easy to untie. Use it to attach a cord to a pack frame, tie a rope through a grommet of a tent, secure a line to a canoe, and in rescue situations, and in a thousand other ways. Learn to tie the bowline around a post and in the free end of a rope. With practice, you can even tie it with one hand. Make a small overhand loop in the standing part of a rope. Bring the rope end up through the loop, around behind the standing part, and back down into the loop. Tighten the bowline by pulling the standing part away from the loop. ”

— Boy Scout Handbook pp. 148-149

“ The Bowline makes a reasonably secure loop in the end of a piece of rope. It has many uses, e.g., to fasten a mooring line to a ring or a post. Under load, it does not slip or bind. With no load it can be untied easily. It's principle shortcoming is that it cannot be tied, or untied, when there is a load on the standing end. It should therefore be avoided when, for example, a mooring line may have to be released under load. Two bowlines can be linked together to join two ropes. ”

— Grog

See The Ashley Book of Knots # 1010, p 186.

Required for

• Bear 22b, Small-Boat Sailing #7a, Sea Scout Apprentice #5.

Instructions

1. Make a loop (top to you).
2. The rabbit goes out of the hole, around the tree, and back into the hole.

Lesson Videos

• Wonder How To Video: Bowline Knot - Grog's Animated Knots: Bowline - Grog's Animated Knots: Bowline - Video: Bowline Knots - Video: Bowline Knots
• Wonder How To Video: Running Bowline Knot
• Wonder How To Video: Portugese Bowline Knot
• Wonder How To Video: Spanish Bowline Knot
• Video: Bowline Bend -

Notes

• The Bowline is one of the Forty Knots.

One-Handed Bowline

“ The One Handed Bowline is a useful and quick way to tie a bowline when the other hand is occupied or injured. There are three main steps. 1. Hold the short end and tie a half hitch with your whole forearm. 2. Pass the short end round the standing end. 3. Still holding the short end, withdraw your hand from the loop. ”

— Grog

• Grog's Animated Knots: One Handed Bowline
• Wonder How To Video: One Handed Bowline
• See The Ashley Book of Knots # 1010, p 186.

Sheet bend

Main article: Sheet bend

Sheet bend
Names	Sheet bend, Becket bend, Weaver's knot, Weaver's hitch
Typical use	Joining two ropes of different diameters.
Caveat
Releasing
Category	Bend knots
Group	Basic knots
Related	Bowline

The Sheet bend is much more secure than a Square knot.

“ [The Sheet bend] serves almost every purpose well, and unties readily without damaging the rope. ”

— See The Ashley Book of Knots # 1431, p. 262.

“ The Sheet Bend is recommended for joining two ropes of unequal size... It works equally well if the ropes are of the same size. ”

— Grog

Required for

• Bear # 22b, Scout, Sea Scout Apprentice #5.

Instructions

1. Make a loop in one end.
2. The rabbit goes out of the hole, around the tree and back under his path.

Lesson Videos

• Grog's Animated Knots: Sheet Bend
• Video: Sheet Bend
• Wonder How To Video: Sheet Bend Knot & Double Sheet Bend Knot

Notes

• The Sheet bend is one of the Forty Knots.

Slip knot

Main article: Slip knot

Slip knot
Names	Slip knot, Running Hitch
Typical use	Sailing
Caveat
Releasing
Category	Hitch knots
Group	Basic knots
Related

Required for

• Bear 22b

Instructions

1. Make a loop.
2. Pull a loop up through the loop.
3. Pull tight.

Lesson Videos

• Wonder How To Video: Slip Knot - Wonder How To Video: Slip Knot - Wonder How To Video: Slip Knot - Video: Slipknots - Video: Slip Knot & a Slippery Hitch Knot

Notes

• The Running Hitch is one of the Forty Knots.

Clove hitch

Main article: Clove hitch

Clove hitch
Names	Clove hitch,
Typical use	Securing lines running along a series of posts, belaying, starting lashings, weak binding
Caveat	Can spill if the standing part is pulled forcibly in the wrong direction.
Releasing	Jamming
Category	Hitch knots
Group	Basic knots
Related	Slippery hitch, Two half-hitches, Buntline hitch, Constrictor knot, Ground-line hitch, Lashings, Snuggle hitch

“ Since clove comes from the word cleave meaning “to split”, a clove hitch is split into two parts like the foot of a deer or a sheep – used to end lashings… form the first half hitch of the clove hitch by taking a bight (loop) around the pole and then across itself. Form the second half hitch of the clove hitch by taking the second bight around the pole and tucking the end of the rope under the rope between the two loops. When pulled tight, the clove hitch should look like an X. The difference between a clove hitch and two half-hitches is that a clove hitch is tied around an object and two half-hitches are tied around the rope’s own standing part. An alternative way of tying a clove hitch it to make and overhand loop in the rope. Then make a second overhand loop next to the first loop. Next, without turning over either loop, place the first loop on top of the second loop. Finally, place the two loops over the end of a pole or around the neck of the bear bag and pull tight. ”

— Boy Scout Handbook p. 139, 11th ed.

“ The Clove hitch was, originally, included here with the intention of condemning it. It does have two major failings: it slips and, paradoxically, can also bind.} ”

— Grog

See The Ashley Book of Knots # 1245, p. 224.

Required for

• First Class #7b, Small-Boat Sailing #7a, Sea Scout Apprentice #5.

Instructions

1. Loop over the top.
2. Loop around again below.
3. Pull through the hole.

Lesson Videos

• Grog's Animated Knots: Clove hitch - Wonder How To Video: Clove Hitch Knot - Wonder How To Video: Clove hitch Boy Scout Knot - Grog's Animated Knots: Clove Hitch - Video: Clove hitch - Video: Various Ways to Tie a Clove Hitch - Video: Clove hitch knots

Notes

• The Clove hitch is one of the Forty Knots.

Timber hitch

Main article: Timber hitch

Timber hitch
Names	Timber hitch, Lumberman's Knot, Countryman's Knot
Typical use	To attach a rope to a piece of wood.
Caveat
Releasing
Category	Hitch knots
Group	Basic knots
Related

“ The timber hitch is the knot to use for dragging a log across the ground. It is also the knot that starts a diagonal lashing. ”

— Boy Scout Handbook p. 138

“ The Timber Hitch is described by as much used for handling cargo "... for which it is very convenient, as it practically falls apart when pull ceases." It is also useful when towing a spar or log either afloat or on land. When used for this purpose, the Timber Hitch is often placed near the center of the spar and a separate half-hitch is dropped over the end of the spar to act as a guide. ”

— Grog

See The Ashley Book of Knots #1665, p. 290.

Required for

• First Class #7b.

Instructions

1. Pass the end of the rope around the log.
2. Loop the end around the starting part of the rope, then wrap the end around itself three or more times.
3. Tighten the hitch against the log.

Lesson Videos

• Grog's Animated Knots: Timber Hitch
• Wonder How To Video: Timber Hitch (Lumberman's Or Countryman's Knot
• Wonder How To Video: Timber Hitch Boy Scout Knot
• Video: Timber Hitch
• Video: Tying a Timber Hitch

Notes

• The Timber hitch is one of the Forty Knots.

Whipping and Fusing rope

Main article: Whipping and Fusing rope

Whipping

Whipping: If the cut end is left un-whipped, the rope will fray or untwist, and loose strength. Whip the ends of ropes to prevent fraying and prolongs the life of the rope. Instructions Lay twine (or dental floss) on rope to form a loop. Wrap the twine around with neat, tight bindings until the length of whipping is two to three times the diameter of the rope. Pull the working end of twine through the loop. Pull hard on the other end of the twine to draw tight under the wraps. Cut off loose ends and roll the whipping under foot. Fusing: Tape the nylon, polyester, polypropylene rope around the area to be cut. Cut in middle of the tape leaving tape intact on each side. When cutting these fibers with a pocket knife or scissors, the cut ends should be fused with a match or candle flame to prevent untwisting. Natural fiber ropes do not fuse. Required for: Bear #22, Webelos Outdoorsman #10, Tenderfoot #4a. Lesson Videos Whip and fuse the end of a rope

Fusing

See also

Knots by Use
Basic knots	Overhand knot · Square knot · Granny knot · Two half-hitches · Taut-line hitch · Bowline · Sheet bend · Slip knot · Clove hitch · Timber hitch
Advanced knots	Constrictor knot · Monkey's fist · Ocean plait · Trucker's hitch · Turk's head
Special knots	Braiding · Carrick bend · Chain sinnet · Cow hitch · Double sheet bend · Sheep shank
Fishing knots	Arbor backing knot · Barrel knot · Blood knot · Blood loop · Clinch knot · Fisherman's knot · Improved clinch knot · Nail knot · Needle knot · Palomar knot · Surgeon's loop · Turle knot
Sailing knots	Bowline on a Bight · Cleat Hitch · Double Bowline · Figure Eight · Marline Hitch · Midshipman's Hitch · Rolling Hitch · Stevedores Knot
Climbing knots	Alpine Butterfly knot · Double fisherman's knot (Grapevine) · Figure eight follow-through · Figure eight on a bight · Figure eight on bend · Figure eight knot · Prusik knot · Safety knot · Water knot
Forty knots

• Animated Knots: Basic Scout Knots - Forty Scout knots - Special Knots - Sailing knots - Fishing knots - Folsoms Knots - Animatedknots.com - Great Animations - More Animated Knots - More great Animated Knots - Still more - Knot Videos - Basics Videos - Basics2
• Other Knot Links: Advanced knots - Ropers Knots Page - Climbing Knots - Fishing knots - Knots Index

There are some great PDFs you can print:     Step-By-Step Knots: 11 Basic Knots fit on the front and back of one page. Six Boy Scout Knots by John Geffre All lower rank knots When to use knots lashings

External links

• Ian's Shoelace Site
• The Notable knot Index