How to Tie a Loop or Bowline Knot

The Bowline is considered one of the greatest knots ever for making a loop. It makes a great loop without ever untying itself. That said, when you need to untie it, it isn't hard at all. Read on to learn how to tie a loop or bowline knot

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   This, believe it or not, is the hardest part for me to remember. Start out with the rope looking like this. Be sure that loop is bent in the same direction, on the proper side of the rope as shown etc.

2. 
    

   Reach down to the bottom end of the rope hanging down and bring up through the hole as shown. Some people think of this as bringing the 'rabbit out of the hole. You can't see the whole picture, but the bottom part is the actual loop. Your loop will be larger or smaller based on how much line you pull through the hole. Pull a lot of line through the whole, your loop will be smaller, pull a small amount of line and your loop will be larger.

3. 
    

   Take the same end of the rope (the one on right side) and bring this around the other end of the rope as shown. Some people think of this as bringing the 'rabbit around the tree'. So you've brought the rabbit out of the hole, around the tree....

4. 
    

   Now, stick the end of the rope (or the rabbit) down into the hole as shown. Be sure to keep the rope going into the hole on the left side of the rope coming out of the hole.

5. 
    

   Grab the ends and pull tight. Notice the loop you've created. If this didn't work, and your like me :-), you might actually have the 1st step wrong. All the steps take a little practice though. Remember, the rabbit comes out of the hole, goes around the tree and jumps back into the hold again! :-0

6. Hope this helped teach you how to tie a loop or bowline

[sallyemaycreate]

on 11/29/2009 Great directions and helpful pics on How to Tie a Loop or Bowline Knot! Thanks... 5*