Knot guide
Clove Hitch
A fast hitch around a post or spar and a common start or finish for lashings.
What it is used for
The Clove Hitch is made from two crossing turns around a post or spar. It is quick to tie and adjust, and is often used to start or finish a lashing.
It can work loose if the pull changes direction or the rope is repeatedly loaded and unloaded, so choose another hitch or add a stopper when the situation requires it.
Remember
Cross, tuck and dress.
The finished hitch has two parallel turns with a diagonal crossing between them. Both rope ends leave from the centre in opposite directions.
How to tie a Clove Hitch
- Pass the working end around the spar to make the first turn.
- Cross over the standing part and take the working end around the spar again.
- Slip the working end under the diagonal crossing.
- Pull both ends in opposite directions, dress the turns neatly and check the hitch is holding in the expected direction.