Here we will demonstrate a simple hitch knot called the Clove Hitch. Here will be demonstrated two different ways of producing such a knot. The name, Clove Hitch, will show it's simplicity of why it has it's name when we come to the conclusion of this instruction. Basically to “clove” means to split into two parts. Both methods that will be demonstrated here include a two part instruction. In other words, there are two parts of the knot that work in concert to ensure the strength and integrity of said knot. Anyone can play with a string and rope and come up with there rendition of a “good” knot. However, a proper knot for the proper situation will always prove better and more secure and usually it is much more cosmetically presentable and clean.

The first method entails forming the knot as you tie it onto a post, limb or any other object you want the rope secured to. Here is the simplified method:

1. First, encircle the post front to back basically letting the rope rest or secure in mid length.

2. Take the end you traveled the post with and bring it up and across the plane of the same rope and circle the post letting the end now hang to the right of the other rope end.

3. Bring the same rope end that you've been working with up and underneath the same stretch of rope that you laid in step 2.

4. Finally, grab both ends and pull. You know you produced a proper and secure Clove Hitch when you see the “X” formation in the rope.

The second method basically forms the knot prior to being affixed to the post. The process is as follows:

1. First, make an overhand loop in the rope leaving enough room for yet another loop. You want to ensure that at the rope intersection the left is resting on top of the right.

2. Now, to the right of that loop, make another ensuring that at that loop's intersection the left, again, is over the right.

3. Carefully place the first loop on top of the second loop and while holding the loops with both hands place them onto the post.

4. Finally, grabbing both ends and pulling tightly should produce a proper clean looking Clove Hitch with the “X” formation.

The Clove Hitch is really a simple formation to make and can be a fun activity especially for children. While they are young give them a segment of rope and few simple instructions and they will remember it for the rest of their lives.