Usage
The Square Knot, also known as the Reef Knot, is an ancient and simple binding knot used to secure a rope or line around an object. Historically employed by sailors for reefing and furling sails, it has also been widely used in macrame and decorative textiles. The knot lies flat when tied with cloth, which made it useful for tying bandages in the past. Although frequently seen for joining two ropes, the Square Knot is not recommended for this purpose due to its potential instability, especially when subjected to unequal loads or when tied with ropes of different sizes. It is primarily a binding knot, best suited for securing bundles or packages.
History
The term Reef Knot originates from its historical use in maritime contexts. Reefing and furling are two techniques related to handling sails on a sailing vessel. Reefing refers to the process of reducing the area of a sail during strong winds to maintain control of the boat. This is done by folding or rolling part of the sail and securing it to reduce the sail's surface area, making the boat easier to manage in rough conditions. Furling involves rolling or folding the sail completely and securing it to a mast, boom, or rigging when it’s not in use. Furling is typically done when the sail is not needed or when docking.
Also known as
ABOK
Structure
When the Reef Knot is correctly tied, the two tails lie on the same side of the knot. If the tails lie on diagonally opposite sides, it is a
Thief Knot.
Strength/Reliability
Although the Reef Knot is often seen used for tying two ropes together, it is not recommended for this purpose due to potential instability of the knot — use a
Sheet Bend or
Double Sheet Bend instead. Knotting authority Clifford Ashley claimed that misused Reef knots have caused more deaths and injuries than all other knots combined.
Note
"Right over left and under, left over right and under" is the mnemonic phrase used to remember how to tie a square knot, also known as a reef knot, where you first cross the right strand over the left, then the left strand over the right, both times passing under the opposite strand; essentially, alternating which side goes over and under.
