More Details on The Blakes Hitch

This illustrates how to tie it in more detail.  Moreover, it points out a grave error if tied incorrectly.  The incorrect way fails to hold.

Double Fisherman's Knot

The double fisherman's knot is great for making loops.  These loops are placed on working or climbing ropes and frequently used as a foothold.  To connect the loop formed by the double fisherman's knot, use a Prusik hitch. Once loaded, this knot is rarely untied.

It's also called a grapevine knot.

A video link to the one handed version is provided.  It also has the basic steps of making this knot.  Unique to the method on video is how an anchor hitch is formed first.  Then it's rolled into a Fisherman's knot. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZ28hDW04ZE

Here's an example of a working system, where the double fisherman is used to form a loop.  In this case it will be a foot loop.

If you need some assistance with making a Prusik, this link can help: http://jimknowsknots.blogspot.com/2011/10/quick-prusik.html

The Buntline Hitch

I frequently use the buntline for connecting the end of my rope to a carabiner.  Here are some illustrations to help you to learn it.

This offers another set of photos and perhaps more visual clues on the buntline.

The Munter or Italian Hitch - A Meditation

Use this section to meditate and learn the munter hitch on a deeper level.

Take the time to dwell with these illustrations.  You'll improve your visual perception of the spatial arrangement.

Also reflect on the shapes as programmable code or notes in music.  It begins with bight, loop and elbow.  It concludes with capturing the knot in a specific way.

In the next illustration, look at making the munter from a different perspective.  Note how the carabiner captures the elbow.  Would this be the surest path for tying the munter hitch?  When using it in a rappel, you want it tied correctly each and every time.

Here's the one handed munter hitch.

Here's the description for the above sequence.  First, take a look at the reference hand to categorize the motions.

Place a bight of rope on the 2-axis (a.k.a. small finger).  Rotate the hand on the 2-axis in the direction that the palm points.  This places the rope across the hand; the thumb now points down.  Next close 1-gate.  This captures one strand of rope.  Reverse the rotation with the hand closed (a fist with the small finger sticking out).  Note that the 2-axis remains fixed through all of this motion.  Hold the 2-axis or small figure steady in space - as a training tool.

At this point, you're holding a loop.  That loop encircles the middle three fingers or 1-axis.  Next bend your wrist to pick-up the strand that runs out the back of your hand.  Return to the previous position.  The 1-axis is the capture point for the carabiner.  When you replace the 1-axis with your carabiner, you have a munter hitch.

Here's the one handed munter video version: http://youtu.be/wPWHIfvDT2s