Secure an end around its standing part with two half hitches after passing through an attachment.
Two half hitches secure the working end to the standing rope after the line goes around a support. The second hitch repeats the first in the same direction, producing a clove-hitch arrangement around the standing part. In this version, the second turn is farther from the attachment.
For a post or rail, a round turn before the hitches gives a different starting arrangement and more contact with the support. Compare that lesson before choosing between them. Neither version needs the tail to wrap around the support a second time to make the finishing hitches.
When to use it
- Make a general attachment to a ring or rail.
- Finish a line after passing it around a support.
Keep in mind
Keep the finish snug and leave a useful tail. Repeated changes in tension can loosen an unattended attachment.
Check your knot
- Both half hitches turn the same way.
- Each hitch surrounds the standing rope.
- The second hitch is outside the first, away from the support.