How to Tie a Bowline

The bowline is a knot that will create a loop of rope that will not slip. It is often used in rescues to haul up victims from a pit or crevasse. And now you’re going to learn how to tie it. BUT YOU ARE NOT RECEIVING RESCUE TRAINING. Do not use this knot to lift a person, as a climbing harness, or any situation where lives depend on the integrity of the knot.

Step 1: Select Your Rope

Take about 2 feet of rope. WARNING: WHEN SELECTING A ROPE, MAKE SURE YOU USE ONE STRONG ENOUGH FOR YOUR INTENDED APPLICATION. I will be using clothesline for the demonstration, but obviously I would not use this in a rescue attempt. Designate one end as the “standing end” and the other as the “running end”. My designations can be seen in the picture.

Step 2: Create a Loop

Cross the running end over the standing end to achieve a loop like the one in the picture. It is important that the running end is OVER the standing end.

Step 3: The Bunny Comes Out of the Hole

Put the running end through the loop you just created.

Step 4: Runs Around the Tree, and Goes Back in the Hole

Wrap the running end around the standing end and put it back through the loop.

Step 5: Tighten the Knot

Pull on the standing end, the running end, and the loop to tighten the knot.

Step 6: The Final Result