Use: The Square Lashing Knot (ABOK # 2114, p 343.) is used to bind two poles together. The lashing is designed to be load bearing and can be used to create scaffolding. Although the two poles usually cross each other at 90 degrees, the Square Lashing may be used when the angle between the two poles is as little as 45 degrees,

Scouting: Square Lashing Knots can be used to make a rectangular frame as shown here. Many applications have been described including: making support frames; when two trees are close enough, a table can be supported by a pair of poles or branches lashed horizontally either side of the trees; a fence can be constructed by driving poles into the ground and then joining them with bars attached with Square Lashing Knots; and a raft can be created by lashing bamboo poles across each other.

Tying it: The animation shows the preferred method of making the Square Lashing Knot. Turns are added internally around one pole and externally around the other. Here, each extra turn is added inside the previous one on the horizontal pole but outside the previous one on the vertical pole. This presents a flat array of turns to be surrounded by the Frapping Turns – and each turn will be subject to the frapping.

Frapping Turns: The turns surrounding the lashing at right angles exert a tightening effect on the lashing. These turns are known as Frapping Turns. Pulling them as tight as possible makes the Lashing more secure. Various techniques are recommended but I’m indebted to Dana Holgate for the following. Make use of your leg-strength. Wrap the rope around a stick. Stand on the poles being lashed with your knees bent, hold the stick across your thighs, and then straighten your legs to tighten the lashing.

Alternative Finish: The final half hitches of the Square Lashing Knot may be located on top of the Frapping Turns, i.e., add two more Frapping Turns in the form of Half Hitches.