clove hitch

knot

Also known as: builder’s knot, ratline hitch

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Last updated

June 24, 2026

Quick Summary

The clove hitch is a temporary knot used to secure a rope to an object like a post or spar. It involves making a turn around the object, crossing over the standing part of the rope, making another turn around the object, and passing it under the last turn. This knot is also known as a builder's knot or ratline hitch. Knots, in general, are formed by interlacing ropes or cords and have been used since ancient times for binding objects, making nets, and in sailing. The primary requirements for a good knot are that it doesn't slip and is easy to tie and untie.12

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knot
The clove hitch, also called a builder’s knot or a ratline hitch, is made by passing the rope’s end around an object and then crossing it over the rope’s standing part to form a loop, then passing the end around the object again to form a…
Read More
The clove hitch, also called a builder’s knot or a ratline hitch, is made by passing the rope’s end around an object and then crossing it over the rope’s standing part to form a loop, then passing the end around the object again to form a…
Read More