How to tie a Tie, The Four in Hand Knot

Also known as a simple knot or schoolboy knot, the four-in-hand is believed to be the most popular method of tying ties due to its simplicity. Some reports state that carriage drivers tied their reins with a four-in-hand knot, while others claim that the carriage drivers wore their scarves in the manner of a four-in-hand, but the most likely explanation is that members of the Four-in-Hand Club in London began to wear the neckwear, making it fashionable.

In more utilitarian settings the four-in-hand knot is known as the buntline hitch. It was used by sailors throughout the age of sail for the rigging of ships and remains a useful working knot today. Although topologically identical, when the knot is made in the manner used to fasten a flat necktie it appears somewhat different than when tied in cylindrical cordage for load-bearing purposes.

The Four-in-Hand knot displays a small and discreet knot, which tends to be long and slightly asymmetric on the narrow side. It works best with wide ties made from heavy fabrics and should be worn with a tab, button-down or regular spread collar. It is appropriate for all occasions.

How to make a Four in Hand Knot, Step by Step:

1. Situate the tie so that the end “A” is longer than end “B” and cross “A” over “B”.

2. Bring the wide end underneath the narrow end from Left to Right.

3. Again, bring the wide end over from Right to Left.

4. Bring the wide end under the knot to the Center region.

5. Bring the wide end down and pass the loop in front. Ensure that the knot is tightened. Use one hand to pull the narrow end down gently.

6. Tighten the knot by sliding it up the narrow end. Make sure your tie is straight and the length is appropriate. That’s the Four in Hand Knot.

Sources: Tie a Tie, to Tie a Tie

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