2. Slip Knot

The slip knot (not to be confused with the heavy metal band) is one of the most commonly tied knots. Its most frequent use is in knitting, where it’s used as the first loop when casting on. A slip knot also makes a good stopper knot, can be used to temporarily secure an item, and functions as a basic snare. 

One way to think of a slip knot is as a slipped overhand knot, with a bight or loop that allows the knot to release when the working end is pulled. A slip knot will also tighten when the opposite (running) end is pulled. Thus it can secure an object and withstand heavy tension, as long as weight is applied to the running end and not the working end. 

Some knot-tiers refer to any knot that can be quickly undone by pulling an end as a slip knot. Technically, that’s incorrect. There’s only one “true” slip knot. A noose is very similar to a slip knot, but the two are actually two distinct knots. 

3. Bowline Knot

The bowline is arguably the best knot for creating a fixed loop at the end of a line. It’s often thought of as a nautical knot, and while it is definitely an important knot for sailors to learn, the uses for a bowline extend well beyond maritime situations. 

The bowline is an ancient knot. Its first known documentation dates back to 1627, but the knot itself has almost certainly been around much longer. Not only is the bowline easy to tie and untie, but it’s capable of holding a lot of weight. The loop will keep its shape under tension, and it doesn’t bind, which means it can be easily untied even after being used to bear a heavy load. 

The bowline is an excellent tie-down knot for tarps and tent pegs and is also commonly used to secure the ends of a hammock to trees. It also works as a rescue (or self-rescue) knot; you can lower it down for someone to step into, or tie it around yourself should you need to be hoisted up.