The Overhand knot is probably the first knot most people learn to tie.
The Ashley Book of Knots (ABoK) describes this knot as a Simple, Single, Thumb, Common, and Ordinary knot.
It is a foundation for forming other knots and is mostly used as a stopper to prevent the rope from unraveling.
Key Takeaways
Type: Stopper knot
Other Names: Thumb knot
ABoK Reference: #514, #515, #519
To tie the Overhand knot, first make a bight in the rope. Next, form an overhand loop using the working end. Pass the working end through the loop you just created, then tighten the knot by pulling both the working and the standing end.
How to Tie an Overhand Knot
- Take the rope and make a bight.
- Make a loop with the working end.
- Pass the working end through the loop you just created.
- Pull both ends to tighten the knot securely.
And there you have it! You’ve tied an Overhand knot—simple, effective, and oh-so-useful.
To untie this knot, push the working and standing ends back towards each other. This will loosen up the knot. It will require a bit of effort if the knot is really tight.
Then, carefully pull the end of the rope back through the knot in the original direction of how it was tied.
Quick TIP
If you want a quick release Knot, you can tie a Slip knot. It’s basically an overhand knot with a draw loop.
It is used as a temporary stopper knot which can be undone easily by pulling the working end to release the loop.
However, don’t use this knot under critical load applications.
If you require a bulky stopper knot, go for the Ashley Stopper knot. It provides great resistance compared to other stopper knots under high loading conditions.
Similar Knots
Half Knot
You must be using the Half knot without even realizing it. It’s an Overhand knot with two ends of the rope tied around something like parcels or shoelaces.
Half Hitch
If one end of a rope is wrapped around an object and an Overhand knot is tied to the standing part, you’ll get a Half Hitch.
Double Overhand Knot
If you want to make the Overhand knot more secure, add an extra turn and it forms a secure and bulkier stopper knot called Double Overhand knot.
Overhand Knot on a Bight
If you need a quick loop at the end of your rope, this knot is what you need. It’s great for attaching carabiners or hooks.
Fisherman’s Knot
When it comes to joining two ropes together, the Fisherman’s knot can save you a lot of time. It’s two Overhand knots, each tied around the standing end of the other knot.
Square Knot
It’s a popular binding knot made by tying two Overhand knots in opposite directions.
Applications and Uses
As a Stopper Knot
It is used as a stopper knot to prevent the rope from unraveling or slipping through a hole or grommet.
Packaging
Mostly used in tying parcels, securing small items or bundling goods together.
Foundation for Other Knots
This knot is not handy on its own—it acts as a foundation for other knots like Square knot, Fisherman’s knot, Double Overhand Knot, etc
Other Uses
Beyond ropes, it’s commonly used in sewing threads, twine and even Macrame.
Common Mistakes
Here are a couple of things to watch out for while tying this knot:
- If you don’t pull the knot tight, it can slip or come undone.
- For very thick or stiff ropes, it might not hold as securely and can be difficult to untie.
- It’s also commonly mistaken for the Half Knot and Half Hitch, although both of them are basically an Overhand knot.
Warning
While the Overhand knot is incredibly versatile, it’s not always the best choice for critical high load applications like climbing and sailing.
According to ABoK, it is quite secure but a weak knot, and reduces the strength of the rope it is tied to by around 50%.
So, it is advised to use this knot under loading condition only if the knot is intended to be permanent.
It also jams and can be tough to untie when wet or under load.
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