How to tie a scaffold hitch knot with animated help

Learn how to tie a knot, but not just any old knot... a scaffold hitch knot. You'll never have any troubles again tying scaffold hitch knots, thanks to this Marinenews animated tutorial. You can learn by simply watching the knot tying animation at a moderate speed, or if need be, click on "learn by steps" to get step-by-step rope knot instructions for scaffold hitch knots.

The scaffold hitch, as the name implies, is useful for suspending timber struts such as those used in scaffolding or for a swing. The scaffold hitch can also be used as a clamp knot to hold two objects together while nailing or gluing takes place. The scaffold hitch is thus a very useful knot and best of all, can be formed quickly. The hitch is formed in two parts. Firstly the rope or cord is arranged around the timber strut and then a fastening knot is tied to suspend the timber strut. To use as a lashing, the hitch should be pulled tight and then sealed off with a reef knot as illustrated here.

There are basic rules that apply to the tying of all knots in nylon monofilament, copolymer and cofilament lines. These rules apply in differing degrees to most of the knots, splices and hitches formed in multi-strand materials, such as Dacron, Micron, braided nylon and wire or cable leaders.

RULE 1: Be thoroughly familiar with all the knots you tie and continually practice the tying of those knots.

RULE 2: Always lubricate knots before tightening them, either with saliva, water or another similar lubricant. Knots tied in nylon monofilament, copolymer and cofilament lines are highly susceptible to heat friction.

RULE 3: When tightening the knot, do so gently but firmly. Do not draw the knot quickly as this can generate heat damaging the line. Give a few test pulls on the newly tied knot.

RULE 4: If you are not happy with a knot, always re-tie it until you are satisfied. Remember that a knot is effectively the weakest link between you and the fish.