How to Tie a Bowstring Knot

Bowstring knots―like those used by archers―are simple, strong and easy to tie. These knots also are a favorite among cowboys, who use them for making lariats. Whether you are using rope or yarn, follow these simple steps to tie a bowstring knot.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rope or yarn

1. Cut a piece of rope or yarn to the desired length to tie a bowstring (lariat) knot.

2. Use braided rope for pulleys and rigging, spinning lariats and lassos and for tying decorative knots. Laid rope is recommended because of its ability to repel water, withstand tremendous strain and separate using standard methods.

3. Tie an overhand knot in the end of the rope first. To do this, make a loop with the rope or yarn similar to the knot used when tying a shoelace.

4. Take the rope's end and circle it around the back and through the overhand knot you just tied. Tie a second overhand knot at the rope's end to create a "stopper knot" and tighten it.

5. Secure the loose―or cross marked―end inside the loop between the bow and the loop with another overhand knot (see Step 2).

6. Tighten the bowstring knot you just tied by pulling the rope taut.

Tips & Warnings

• Once it has been tied and pulled tight, a bowstring knot should not be untied.
• Overhand knots support knots in yarn.
• When tying a bowstring knot there should be no loose ends.
• Bowstring knots often are referred to as "tie-once" loop knots.
• Dry wet rope before using it to tie a bowstring knot.
• A bowstring knot's circular shape gives it more mobility along the rope to which the bowstring knot is secured. This is especially true with rigid rope.