Step 10 of 11 · Tie Five Knots That Do Real Jobs
The simplest reliable stopper
The simplest reliable stopper — step 10 of 11 in Tie Five Knots That Do Real Jobs. Make a loop by crossing the working end over the standing part (forming a number 6 shape).
Free outdoor skills tip: The simplest reliable stopper (step 10 of 11 from "Tie Five Knots That Do Real Jobs").
Make a loop by crossing the working end over the standing part (forming a number 6 shape). Pass the working end behind the standing part and then back through the original loop from the front. Pull both ends to tighten. The finished knot looks like the number 8 from the side.
The figure-8 is larger than a simple overhand knot, so it stops at holes where an overhand might slip through. It also unties more easily after being loaded — the overhand can weld itself shut under heavy force, but the figure-8's extra turn distributes the load and stays manageable.
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