Sometimes we want to catch a limb in the same way we would do with the single column tie but using the middle of the rope. Inline cuffs are also called hojo cuff because of its use in hojōjutsu 捕縄術, a rope-based martial art.

We start with a simple cuff based on the half hitch, but there are many ways to create cuffs with the middle of the rope, we’ll look into these in Day 212.

Half Hitch Inline Cuff

We can create a very fast and simple cuff by making a half hitch to hold the loops in place. A half hitch is not enough to lock the rope in place. It will be stable as long as tension is maintained in both the origin and exit rope.

Mayfly Pattern

A mayfly pattern is created when we tie inline cuffs in a zig-zag pattern, then complete the symmetry in the opposite direction. Bonus: add crossing hitches when two ropes cross to add solidity to the structure.

Practice Time!

Create a mayfly pattern using cuffs and crossing hitches.

Self-evaluation checklist:

  • The rope is flat on the body with no unnecessary twists
  • The tension in each wrap is identical
  • Two fingers gap inside the cuff, not too tight, not too loose
  • The frictions folds in a way that makes them compacted for maximum efficiency
  • Tension is maintained during the whole duration of the tying process
  • Each inline cuff has the same amount of slack and are of even tension
  • Are wraps symmetrically on each side?

Exploration ideas:

  • Try different numbers of wraps in the cuff
  • How many cuffs can you put on a single limb?
  • Can you create a mayfly pattern on other parts of the body?
  • Can you tie a mayfly pattern between a person and something else? (Ex: a chair, or another person)
  • What happens when you move the limbs after being tied?

Inspirations and Resources

Coming soon!

Credit: Half hitch inline cuff – M/R: Ebi McKnotty P: AlexK7 Mayfly pattern M: Miss_Soffia R: Ebi McKnotty P: AlexK7


Let’s continue with Cow Hitch

Or return to Hitches for more options.