How to Tie a Monkey Fist Knot

Whether you’re participating in an activity that requires knot tying experience or you want to try your hand at a new skill, learning how to tie a monkey fist knot step by step is essential. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about the monkey’s fist knot. 

What is a Monkey Fist Knot?

A monkey fist knot is a decorative knot used to make a knob at the end of a rope. The knot is made by wrapping the rope around an object, such as a ball or stone, and then tying it off. The resulting knot resembles a small fist, hence the name. Monkey fist knots can be made with different types of materials tied around different size objects. Because of this, they can vary significantly in appearance.

Where Did the Monkey Fist Knot Originate?

The monkey fist knot, also referred to as a monkey's paw or sailors knot, was first pictured and named in Log Book Notes (New York, 1888) by E.N. Little. Although the origins of the monkey fist knot may vary depending upon the source, it was first documented in the Log Book Notes. 

When to Use a Monkey’s Fist Knot?

Despite their decorative nature, monkey fist knots serve a variety of practical purposes, including adding weight to the end of a rope. In fact, sailors commonly use it to add extra weight at the end of a heaving line. Utilizing a monkey fist knot allows cables to be thrown from the ship to shore more easily and further than a rope or line without the knot. You can also place a rock or other heavy object inside the knot to add additional weight before tightening it, increasing the distance you can throw the monkey fist knot. 

How to Tie a Monkey Fist Knot Step By Step

With so many uses, learning how to tie a monkey fist knot is an excellent skill to know. Here is how to tie a monkey fist knot step by step:

• First, take a length of yarn, string, or rope and make a loop in the center. 
• Second, hold the loop in your left hand and make five wraps around your fingers. 
• Third, insert your right hand through the center of the wraps and grab the working end of the material. 
• Fourth place the working end through the center of the wraps and tighten to form a monkey fist knot.
• Once you've tied the knot, you can trim the excess yarn and use it as desired.

With some practice, you’ll be able to master the monkey’s fist knot and show off your skills. 

Best Rope and String for a Monkey’s Fist Knot

You have successfully learned how to tie a monkey fist knot step by step. Start applying what you learned today by purchasing the material you need to tie the knot effectively. A wide variety of materials can be used to tie a monkey fist knot, depending on the use case. Before performing any activity, double-check that the rope you use will get the job done safely.

• Boating & Sailing: Solid Braid Dacron Polyester Halyard Rope–designed for sailboat rigging and flag flying. 
• Fishing: Double Braid Nylon Rope–performance you can count on and an excellent choice when one braid just won't cut it.
• Climbing: WD-ARMBURY Static Rope Climbing Rope–decreases slippage while providing maximum tension management.
• Scuba Diving: Dacron Polyester Scuba Reel Line–great for protection against abrasion, elongation, and water absorption.  

Learn How to Tie a Monkey Fist Knot and More at SGT Knots

You can learn how to tie a monkey fist knot step by step more knots for everyday use by watching our knot tutorials or visiting our blog for more information and tips. Explore the world of ropes and knot tying by following SGT KNOTS on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook today!