Learn How To Build Weight Bearing Structures With The Square Lashing Knot

Video: If you’ve ever wanted to build a structure or shelter with nothing but some branches and some rope, this video will show you how.

In this lesson from the ITS Tactical YouTube channel, you’ll learn the basics of constructing a weight bearing structure using the super strong square lashing knot. Start by tying a clove hitch to the top spar (your branch or wooden pole). Then lay your top spar on top of your bottom spar so they’re perpendicular. After weaving your rope around both poles in three passes or so (you can see how in the video), you’ll do a frapping turn around the rope that’s in between and connecting the two spars. This tightens the rope and keeps the two spars from slipping. Once you’ve done a few frapping turns, you finish the knot off with another clove hitch on the same spar you started on (though a constrictor knot may be just as effective here). They use paracord in this demonstration, but it’s just for show. Make sure you use real fibre rope or sisal rope when you want to actually construct something out in the field.

Knot of the Week Video: Build a Weight Bearing Structure with the Square Lashing [ITS Tactical]