Simple Stopper Knots
The Overhand Knot and The Figure 8 Knot

Stopper Knots are used to create a bulge on the bitter end of a line so the line will not "escape" through a rope clutch or pad eye.

The Overhand Knot is the simplest of the stopper knots.  However, it is also the knot most likely to jam in soft lines, and the most likely to slip in slippery lines such as polypropylene and polyethylene.

With an added loop, the Overhand Knot becomes the Figure 8 Knot.  The Figure 8 Knot produces a larger stopper than the overhand knot, hold better, and is less likely to jam.

	To tie the Overhand Knot: Start by making a small overhand loop in the bitter end. Bring the bitter end up through the loop. Tighten it up.
	To tie the Figure 8 Knot: Start by making a small overhand loop identical to the Overhand Knot. However, now pass the bitter end around the back side of the standing part. Then bring the bitter end DOWN through the loop. Tighten it up.

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