Lapp Knot

Written by Binod Gautam

Published on:

The Lapp Knot is a bend knot that is used to join two ropes together.

It is similar in structure to the Sheet Bend or Bowline, but differs in how the standing and working ends are used.

It’s a versatile knot that can be used as a bend, loop, or binding knot.

Let’s learn it in detail.

Lapp Knot Details

Type: Bend Knot

Other Names: False Sheet Bend, Lap Knot, Girdle Knot, English Bowline

ABoK Reference: Not Available

How to Tie the Lapp Knot

  1. Make a bight with one end of the rope.
  2. Pass the working end of the other rope over and under the bight of the first rope.
  3. Pass it over itself and through the loop.
  4. Tighten the knot.

You have done this right if you have the working ends on the same side of the knot. 

If they end up on the different side, you have tied the Anti-Lapp Knot—the evil imposter (refer to the last slide).

lapp-knot-diagram-step-by-step

Slipped Lapp Knot

slipped lapp knot

Want a quick release version? Instead of feeding the working end through in the last step, just feed the bight.

The knot explodes meaning the knot falls apart completely without any entanglement.

Lapp Knot vs Sheet Bend

lapp knot vs sheet bend

At first glance, the Lapp Knot looks like the Sheet bend in appearance. That’s why it is sometimes called the False Sheet Bend.

But both are two different knots.

The Lapp Bend is just as strong or even stronger than the Sheet Bend. 

Application and Uses

As a Bend Knot

The Lapp Knot can be used as a bend knot to join two ropes together.

It can be tied in the slipped form which makes it easy to untie later. But it should be used for non-critical applications only.

It’s popularly used for camping to join shelter lines.

As a Loop Knot

The Lapp Knot can also be used as a Loop knot too. 

It can be used as an alternative to the Bowline and looks similar to the Left handed Bowline or the Cowboy Bowline.

As a Binding Knot

The slipped Lapp Knot can be used as a binding knot to bundle or roll items together. 

The exploding nature makes it easy to untie it easily.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Easy to tie and untie under load.
  • Does not jam.
  • Can be used as a loop, bend, or binding knot.

Cons

  • Not reliable for critical uses.

If you like the article, don’t forget to share it with family and friends!

Leave a Comment

You May also like

WATER-KNOT-DIAGRAM

Climbing Knots,Arborist Knots,Bend Knots,Search and Rescue Knots

Water Knot

The Water Knot (ABoK #296) joins two pieces of webbing and is popular for rappel slings. Easy to tie, but ensure long tails and tightness to prevent slipping.

CAT'S-PAW-KNOT

Hitch Knots

Cat’s Paw Knot

The Cat’s Paw Knot (ABoK #1891) is a strong, non-jamming hitch used for lifting, fishing rigs and paracord. It evenly distributes load using two twisted loops.

double-sheet-bend

Bend Knots

Double Sheet Bend

The Double Sheet Bend Knot (ABoK #1434) is a secure knot used to join ropes of different sizes and rigidity, offering an extra grip with a second wrap.

MAGNUS-HITCH-KNOT

Hitch Knots

Magnus Hitch

The Magnus Hitch Knot (ABoK #1736) is used to tie rope to a pole, spar, or another rope—ideal when you need to adjust tension without untying the rope.