How to Tie a Lap Knot

The lap knot is so-named for its use in Lapland. It is an old knot and has been used in many different places, especially those with cold climates. It is related to the sheet bend and is occasionally called a false sheet bend. Read the steps below to learn how to tie a lap knot.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Attach a rope to a board or leather strap with a hole in it. Assume the board is on your left with the rope on the right and above the board.

2. Wrap the working end of the rope under the board from the bottom and pull it back around from the top such that this turning is to the left of the hole in the board. Bring the working end over the standing end and push it through the hole from above.

3. Tie a lap knot to a strap of leather. Fold the strap in half and wrap the rope around the double portion once beginning at the fold. Bend the working end over the standing end and push it through the fold in the leather.

4. Use the lap knot to make a loop at the end of a leather strap. Make one lap knot as directed in Step 3 then make another lap knot with the free end of the rope. Ensure that the second knot is in the opposite direction of the first and that its also tied on the double portion of the strap.

5. This is an extremely simple knot that will only hold with rough materials. When tying to leather, it is as secure as a true sheet bend and easier to untie. This is an important advantage in cold weather.