Leave enough working rope below to form the large loop.
Basics · 9 steps
Make a fixed loop at the end of a rope.
A bowline makes an eye that stays a chosen size when the standing rope is pulled. A small opening in the standing part grips the returning end, while a collar goes around the standing line above it. The large loop and the small collar do different jobs.
This lesson shows the common form with the tail inside the large loop. Follow the end through the small opening, around the standing line, and back through that same opening. If you need the large loop to slide, the running bowline is a separate arrangement.
When to use it
Tie a loop around a post or through a ring.
Keep in mind
Can loosen when unloaded or repeatedly shaken.
Check your knot
The collar surrounds the standing line.
The tail returns through the same small opening.
The tail lies inside the large eye in this version.
How to tie Bowline
Start with the standing part
Leave enough working rope below to form the large loop.
Bring the end down
Extend the working end below the standing part.
Make the small loop
Turn the end to the right, around the small loop, and across the front of the standing part.
Form the large loop
Bring the end down the left side, across the bottom, and back up on the right.
Come up through the opening
Pass behind the lower rim and through the small loop. Bring the end forward above its upper rim.
Go around the standing part
Take the end around the standing part from the right, behind it, and back on the left.
Return through the same loop
Bring the end forward across the upper side and down through the small opening, behind its lower rim.
Leave the tail inside
Bring out the short tail inside the large loop, beside its returning leg.
Dress the collar
Take slack out of the small nipping loop and collar. Keep the large eye open and the short tail inside it.
