How to Tie a Figure-Eight Hitch

A figure eight hitch is simply a figure eight knot that is used to tie a line to a rigid object such as a post. When used in this manner, it is similar to a half hitch but is much more secure.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Tie the figure eight hitch to a horizontal post for demonstration purposes. Pass the working end of the rope over the post and bring it back from under the post.

2. Bend the working end over the standing end to form a loop around the post. Push the working end under the standing end and bring it back up. Now push it through the loop made in Step 1 from above. The knot should have its distinctive figure-eight shape at this point.

3. Dress the figure-eight hitch by draping the working end over the hitching post so that it is parallel with the loop around the post made in Step 1.

4. Tighten the figure-eight hitch by snugging it up to the hitching post and pulling the two ends of the rope in opposite directions. The figure-eight shape will disappear as it is tightened.

5. Tie a figure-eight hitch, more commonly called a cleat hitch, to a cleat. The horn farthest from the load (usually a ship) will be horn A and the horn closest to the load will be horn B. Begin by wrapping the rope away from the load under horn A.

6. Wrap the rope under horn B, over the cleat, under and then over horn A. Repeat this pattern several more times.