How to Tie an Icicle Hitch

An icicle hitch is specifically designed be tied to a pole and bear a load that pulls parallel to the length of the pole. It is so named because it is the only type of knot that can suspend a weight from an "icicle-like" tapered pole. The following steps will show how to tie an icicle hitch.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Hold the pole in front of you horizontally. For this example, the weight on the icicle knot will be pulling to the right.

2. Bring the working end of the rope up from behind the pole and wrap it at least three complete turns around the pole away from the direction of pull to the left. The number of turns required will depend on the specific materials and load but it should be an exact number of turns so the working and standing ends lead in the same direction.

3. Tighten the wraps with the working end so they lie together neatly without gaps or overlap. Bring the working end back over the wraps and place it loosely across the pole, leaving a suspended bight.

4. Bring the bight behind the pole and around the working and standing ends. Slip it around the weight-bearing end of the pole so that it hangs to the right of the working end.

5. Dress the icicle hitch by firmly pulling both ends of the rope towards the direction of pull to the right. Work the slack out carefully if needed and snug up the knot.

Resources

• Learn more about knot-tying at Real Knots.

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