The Square Lashing Knot is used to lash two poles together, usually at right angles.
It is used in load bearing applications to keep the poles from sliding over each other and create a stable connection.
It’s used to form a framework for shelters, bridges, furniture, beds, or even ladders.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Square Lashing Knot Details
Type: Lashing Knot
Other Names: None
ABoK Reference: #2114
Quick Guide
To tie the Square Lashing Knot, start by tying the Clove Hitch around one pole. Twist the short end of the Clove Hitch around the long end, then wrap the rope over and under each pole 3-4 times.
Next, tie a frapping turn around the poles. Finally, secure the lashing with two Half Hitches.
How to Tie the Square Lashing Knot
- Tie a Clove Hitch around one pole.
- Twist the short end around the long end and wrap it around both poles.
- Go over and under each pole 3 times.
- Make one wrapping turn around the vertical pole.
- Tie a first frapping turn to tighten the existing wraps.
- Tie 3 frapping turns around the poles.
- Tie 2-3 Half Hitches.
Pro Tip
- To make the lashing tight, pull the rope tight each time you make a turn or a wrap.
- Make sure the wraps don’t overlap for a clean and tight lashing.
Application and Uses
- Building rafts: Lash logs together to create a sturdy floating platform for crossing bodies of water.
- Making a splint: In emergencies, use this lashing to create a sturdy splint using sticks or other materials to stabilize broken bones.
- Make Fence: Secure vertical poles to horizontal poles to create a fence.
- Scaffolding: Useful when building structures.
Japanese Square Lashings
The Japanese Square Lashing is a group of lashing tied in a similar pattern—the main difference is the way the lashing is started.
Japanese Square Lashing Mark I
The Japanese Square Lashing Mark I is tied by looping the center of the rope around the vertical pole and taking the rope parallel while taking the wrapping turns.
The frapping turns are made separately in opposite directions.
Japanese Square Lashing Mark II
The Japanese Square Lashing Mark II is tied by looping the center of the rope around the vertical pole and then forming the wrapping turns by taking the ends of the rope in opposite directions.
Japanese Square Lashing Mark III
The Japanese Square Lashing Mark III is tied similar to Mark II but starts with a Clove Hitch around the vertical pole.
Other Lashing Knots
Shear Lashing
The Shear Lashing is used to lash two poles to form an A-frame leg to support weight or reinforce the weak poles.
Round Lashing
The Round Lashing is used to bind two poles together to extend their length or increase their strength.
Tripod Lashing
The Tripod Lashing is used to lash three poles together to form a tripod.
Diagonal Lashing
The Diagonal Lashing is used when you need to lash two poles at a right angle to form a cross brace of a framework.
Transom Knot
The Transom Knot is not as secure as the Square Lashing Knot, but it works best for quick temporary setups.
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