5 steps
Clove Hitch
Two opposing turns around a post or a rail. Useful to hang a net or a fender. It slips if the pull is not square to the post.
Use it for
Two opposing turns around a post or a rail. Useful to hang a net or a fender. It slips if the pull is not square to the post.
This line
Do not clove-hitch braid to a hook.
Avoid when
A load that runs along the post. Use a rolling hitch or an anchor bend then.
All steps visible
Clove Hitch
Step 1
Lay the rope against the post.
Step 2
Take the first turn.
Step 3
Cross over and take the second turn.
Step 4
Tuck the tag under that second turn.
Step 5
Snug it so the two turns grip.
The drawing follows this tying order. Pause, step, or scrub to stay with the words. The standing line runs to the reel. The tag is the short end you trim. Skin-hook means the point lies flat in the plastic, not out where grass can grab it.
Common mistakes
- Both turns the same way, which is not a clove and will roll.
- Using it as the only knot on an anchor rode.