ImportantKnots
Important Knots
all these are illustrated in this video:
Bowline
This is one of the most important knots to know. It is used to tie a loop in the end of a rope that will not cinch or slip. It also one of the easiest knots to untie. We use it when we attach guy lines to metal poles such as the ones that secure the shower or the kitchen. We also use it at the tops of large poles such as our 40' mast. Animated Bowline
Sheet Bend
This is a special purpose knot that is used to join 2 ropes of differing diameters. We use this knot to attach 1/4" white guy lines to the short segments of paracord that are a part of the Soularium. Animated Sheetbend
Taught Line Hitch
This knot is used extensively in camp. It allows guy lines to be tied around playa staples and still be adjusted later. That is because this knot will slide along the part of the line taking the load. It will remain at whatever adjustment you give it. Animated Taught LIne Hitch
Lark's Head Knot
This knot is used to attach ratchets to circus stakes and 1" webbing to the galvanized cable in the bike racks. It is also used to attach webbing and ratchets to poles in the kitchen and greeter shade. In all these applications, there is already a pre-existing loop and the opposite end of the webbing is passed through the loop. Animated Lark's Head
Two Half Hitches
This knot is not used all that much in camp but it is very useful and important to know. It is used to tie a rope to itself such as when lashing a load on a truck. Animated Two Half Hitches
Clove Hitch
This knot is also not used much in camp but the concept of it is important. It is used to secure the end of a rope to a pole. It is related to the Two Half Hitches because two half hitches is just a clove hitch tied to itself. Animated Clove Hitch
Hanking Ropes
This is always a controversial subject as everyone has their favorite way that they have learned. Many rope hanking techniques are designed for ropes that are hung afterwards such as at the mast of a boat. All our ropes are thrown in a pile and moved multiple times before they are used again. That means that the securing wraps must be very tight and secure. This is the method I prefer: Animated Rope Hanking
Note: It is not necessary to do the locking loop over the top of the hank if that is confusing, you can also do a single half hitch or the 1st turn of a clove hitch if that is easier.