January 2013

Mastering marlinespike

Binder’s loop

Farmers used the binder’s loop in light line to bind a sheaf of straw, a handful of straw wisps or a bale of hay. It can be used to bind any bundle of loose items. It is finished with two half hitches.

A. Form a tight bight in the end of the line, and tie an overhand knot below the tip of the bight.

B. Wrap the other end of the line around the bundle to bind it. Insert the end of the line through the loop (at the arrow) and pull tight. Tie two half hitches around the binding line to secure the knot.

Original materials used with thanks to Irene Rodriguez and John Bennett

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