What is the Half Knot used for?

Serving as the first half of the Square Knot (tie a half knot, then another crossed the opposite way); Forming the Surgeon's Knot, with an extra wrap that holds while the second loop is tied; Temporarily holding a lashing in place before finishing it off; Teaching beginners the difference between crossing over and under (which determines a square knot versus a false sheet bend); Closing a sack or package with a simple starting crossing.

How do you tie the Half Knot?

The Half Knot is the most elementary gesture in the whole art of tying rope: a single loop in which one end crosses the other and passes underneath. On its own it holds almost nothing, but it's the seed of dozens of larger knots, including the square knot and the surgeon's knot. Follow the illustrated step-by-step, with a photo for every stage, on Desbravai.

Is the Half Knot hard to tie?

The Half Knot is rated easy, in the Basic Knots category and is taught with a photo at every stage on Desbravai.

What precautions apply when using the Half Knot?

On its own it isn't secure: it comes loose easily and shouldn't bear load or a person's weight; If both loops are tied in the same direction, it forms the false sheet bend (granny), which slips.

Half Knot

Q: What other names does the Half Knot have?

It is also known as Half Knot, Medio nudo, Meia Laçada, Primeira laçada do nó direito, Demi-nœud. (ABOK #1202)

A single crossing loop of two ends, the building block of the Square Knot and the Surgeon's Knot

Also called: Half Knot, Medio nudo, Meia Laçada, Primeira laçada do nó direito, Demi-nœud · ABOK #1202

What it is for

Serving as the first half of the Square Knot (tie a half knot, then another crossed the opposite way)
Forming the Surgeon's Knot, with an extra wrap that holds while the second loop is tied
Temporarily holding a lashing in place before finishing it off
Teaching beginners the difference between crossing over and under (which determines a square knot versus a false sheet bend)
Closing a sack or package with a simple starting crossing