The Figure-of-Eight Lashing this is used to fasten three poles together to make a tripod or wash stand etc. there are two different ways to do this lashing depending what you are using it for, you can start with all three spars level at the top (A) and after tying the lashing just open them out, this is ideal for something like a wash stand but obviously you would tie it lower down. But if you want something a little stronger/tighter then you start with the two outside poles with there tops level running top to bottom, and the inner one upside down running bottom to top (B) and after tying the lashing you pull the inner spar down and open the others out, but be careful its not that tight it snaps the lashing. Having decided on A or B you start with a clove hitch round one of the outside spars, twist the running and standing ends together as with the other lashings, and then thread the rope round the spars over and under alternatively making a figure of eight as in the diagram, eight or nine will do. Frap in-between the spars to pull everything tight and finish of with a clove hitch on the other outside spar.

Well that's all four lashings, so now you have no excuse not to have a go at making some of the things in the previous photos.

Next lets look at some hitches you can be use to fasten your basher ropes to a peg, starting on the left with The Wet Weather or Take-up Hitch, this slip hitch has the advantage that you can easily adjust it when wet threatens to shrink the rope, and it never jams.

The Awning Knot used as a stake hitch, and to fasten guys etc, this is a clever knot because it becomes loose by a blow or jerk to the standing end, walk into this one in the dark and it comes undone without sending you flying. It is made up of the first two turns of the Midshipman’s hitch.

The Adjustable Hitch this is an excellent knot to use to fasten the guys on your basher, or tarp, its just as practical as the wooden toggles on tents, and can be adjusted in the same way