A clove hitch is one half-hitch followed by another half-hitch, but that description is deceptively simple.
In this example, we’re making a half hitch onto a suspension line. The line we’re making the hitch with is called our running line.
Since the suspension line is perpendicular, the running line will form either a 4 or a reverse-4 as you make the half hitch.
Notice that you can make a 4 or a reverse-4. Notice also that you can run the running line inside (between you & the suspension line) or outside (on the other side of the suspension line from you).
Notice if you’re making a 4 or a reverse-4. Notice if you are running inside or outside
| if you start with… | then finish with… |
| 4 line inside | 4 line outside |
| 4 line outside | 4 line inside |
| reverse-4 line inside | reverse-4 line outside |
| reverse-4 line outside | reverse-4 line inside |
You can make this more or less confusing for yourself, too. If you prefer to switch your 4s instead of switching between inside or outside, you can invert the 2nd step for the same result.
| if you start with… | then also finish with… |
| 4 line inside | reverse-4 line inside |
| 4 line outside | reverse-4 line outside |
| reverse-4 line inside | 4 line inside |
| reverse-4 line outside | 4 line outside |