KNOT REFERENCE

LASHING KNOTS

January 29, 2026 1 min read

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  1. SQUARE LASHING

Joining poles at right angles

Uses:

  • Shelter framework
  • Tripod bases
  • A-frame construction

Method:

  1. Start: Clove hitch on vertical pole
  2. Wrap: Over horizontal, under vertical, over horizontal, under vertical (3-4 complete wraps)
  3. Frap: Wrap between poles (2-3 fraps) – tightens binding
  4. Finish: Clove hitch on horizontal pole

Strength: Very strong perpendicular joint Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Essential structure building

  1. DIAGONAL LASHING

Joining poles at acute/obtuse angles

Uses:

  • Shear legs (tripods)
  • Angled frame joints
  • Reinforcing square lashings

Method:

  1. Start: Timber hitch around both poles (crossing point)
  2. Wrap: Three wraps in one diagonal direction
  3. Cross: Three wraps in opposite diagonal
  4. Frap: Between poles (2-3 wraps)
  5. Finish: Clove hitch

Function: Prevents spreading/racking of angled joints Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ Useful for complex structures

  1. TRIPOD LASHING

Binding three poles together

Uses:

  • Cooking tripods
  • Shelter ridge supports
  • Camera/torch stands

Method:

  1. Lay three poles parallel
  2. Start: Clove hitch on end pole
  3. Wrap: Loose figure-8 wraps around all three poles (7-8 wraps)
  4. Frap: Between each pair of poles (tightens)
  5. Finish: Clove hitch on opposite end pole
  6. Spread legs to form tripod

Strength: Stable three-legged base Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ Very useful camp structure

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