Scaffold Knot
How to tie the Scaffold Knot. The Scaffold Knot makes a sturdy loop that slides like a noose to fit snugly around a bar, rail or other object. It may be protected against wear due to chafing by the insertion of a lining called a thimble, creating what sailors refer to as a "hard eye". Thimbles come in a range of sizes and are obtainable from boat and yacht chandlers. The Scaffold Knot is similar to the Poacher's Knot but it has an extra turn. It is sometimes called a Triple Overhand Noose, whereas the Poacher's is sometimes called a Double, or Two-Turn, Scaffold. Another simple sliding noose can be made with the Slip Knot. Note: never play "hangman" with this or any noose knot, they can kill.
Scroll to see Animated Scaffold Knot below the illustration and tying instructions.
Scaffold Knot Tying Instructions
- Form a loop at the end of the rope and wrap working end around both the standing line and the working end.
- You will be working back toward the loop, making three loose wraps around both lines. Note that if you are securing the loop to an object such as a post, do so at the beginning of tying the knot.
- After the third turn, feed the working end back through the openings of the wraps, running parallel to the standing line.
- Pull the knot tight by the working end. If you are making a 'hard eye' with a thimble, insert the thimble and tighten the loop down onto it by pulling on the standing line.
