The clove hitch is a type of knot. It is one of a number of knots known as binding knots. It has been in use since ancient times. It consists of two half hitches lying in opposite directions around a post. (The two half-hitches uses a clove hitch, but is not the same thing.)

The clove hitch is liable to slip. It requires a load in each direction in order to be effective. It should not be relied on with rope that is thin or very slippery, as it can work itself loose, especially under a swinging or rotating load. It can also jam and become difficult to untie under some situations.

To tie a clove hitch, first place a loop around the pole, with the working end of the rope on top. Run the working end round the pole once more until you meet the place where the ropes cross, then pass the working end under the cross. Pull to tighten.

It can be formed in the middle of a rope, even if neither end is available. To tie it this way, form two back-to-back overhand loops in a rope, and then put the top loop underneath the bottom one. Drop both loops over a post and tighten.

See also

• List of hitch knots
• List of knots

External links

• Grog's Animated Knots: How to tie the clove hitch
• Notable Knot Index - shows quick method of tying
• Hitch Knots - including instructions

Webeleinstek | Siansorkka | Nœud de cabestan | Nodo barcaiolo | 巻き結び | Mastworp | Dubbelt halvslag

Knots