How to Tie a Double Marline Hitch

A double marline hitch is used as permanent binding when multiple hitchings are needed. It is most commonly found as the first and last hitch in a row for additional security in a long row of hitches. The following steps will show how to tie a double marline hitch.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Assume that you are tying to a horizontal pole and that the standing end of the rope goes to your left. Hold a section of the standing end horizontally in the center of the pole.

2. Bend the rope upward at a right angle and drop the working end over the top of the pole. Pull the working end back up so that it is to the left of the turning previously made. Wrap it around the pole and bring it back up once again.

3. Lift the working end above the horizontal standing end and push it under the two turns made in Step 2. Pull the working end through, keeping it horizontal.

4. Dress the double marline hitch by snugging up the turnings and ensuring both ends are kept horizontal. A well-laid double marline hitch normally requires tools to untie. A row of marline hitches would frequently be made at this point which would then be terminated by another double marline hitch.

5. Observe that the double marline hitch is uniquely identified as knot No. 1239 in "Ashley's Book of Knots." However, it also may be called a strangle knot depending upon the application, especially when used as an individual hitch.

Resources

• More about tying knots on the Real Knots website