Page 31 - Knots You Need to Know Easy-to-Follow Guide to the 30 Most Useful Knots

The Square Knot

The square knot, or reef knot, is the commonest device for binding
together two ends of rope to enclose an object, such as the foot of a
reefed sail. To tie it, hold one end still and work with the other. Pass the

working end over (1) and then around and under the other, thus forming a
simple overhand knot (2). Now turn both ends back and repeat the
process; working with the same end as before, place it over (3), around
and under. Draw up by pulling the ends (4). If quick release is vital, make
a slipped reef (5) by using a bight or half bow, rather than an end, for the
final step.