Sailing knots · Bend

How to Tie a Reef Knot

A reef knot is a flat knot for tying reef points round a sail and for bundling things like sail ties. Tie right over left and under, then left over right and under, so each end lies beside its own standing part.

A reef knot tied in cream rope
ClemRutter, CC BY-SA 4.0
Type
Bend
Used for
Tying reef points on sails, bundling items, or joining two ropes of identical diameter under light load. NOT for critical connections.
Strength retained
~45% of rope strength

How to tie a reef knot, step by step

  1. 1

    Right over left

    Cross the right end over the left and tuck it under, as if starting to tie your shoes.

  2. 2

    Left over right

    Cross the end now on the left over the right and tuck it under — the opposite way to the first half.

  3. 3

    Tighten evenly

    Pull the ends so the knot sits flat and symmetrical, with each end lying alongside its own standing part.

    A finished reef knot, flat and symmetrical
    Der Barbar, CC BY-SA 4.0

Tip

NEVER use for joining ropes under heavy load — it capsizes. Only for same-diameter ropes. If it looks like a granny knot (asymmetric), redo it.

Common mistakes

  • Tying left over right twice, which makes a granny knot that slips or jams.
  • Using it to join two ropes that will be loaded. It can capsize and pull apart; use a sheet bend.
  • Tying it with ropes of different sizes, which makes it even less secure.

Related knots

See all 8 knots in the knot guide or practise them in the knot game.

Frequently asked questions

Why is it called a reef knot?

Because it is the knot used to tie the reef points of a sail round the bunched-up foot when reefing. It lies flat against the sail and is quick to untie when shaking the reef out.

How can you tell a reef knot from a granny knot?

In a reef knot both ends come out on the same side, alongside their own standing parts, and the knot lies flat. A granny knot looks twisted and lopsided.