There are so many creative uses for bungee cords around the home and in other projects or activities. For hobbies such as sailing, kayaking, or other outdoor activities, you may well need to tie some knots in your bungee cords. But, your typical knots that can be used for ropes and other cords may not work in bungee cords due to how stretchy they are. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t still use a variety of knots and techniques with your bungee cords. Keep reading to find out how to tie a bungee cord knot.

Zeppelin bend

A zeppelin bend, also known as the Rosendahl bend, is used to join two ropes or cords together end-to-end. It’s comprised of two symmetrical overhand knots that join together. This kind of bungee cord knot can be used to create a loop of bungee cord (like a large rubber band) or tie together a rope and a bungee cord. The zeppelin bend is very stable and resistant to the risk of jamming. 

How to tie a zeppelin bend:

1. Start with two overhand loops next to each other – they should look like a 6 and a 9.
2. Slide the loop with the end of the cord facing down (9) underneath the other loop (6). You should have one working end of rope on the top and one on the bottom.
3. Take the top working end of the bungee cord and pull through both loops from underneath.
4. Now take the other bungee cord and bring its working end through both loops from the top.
5. You should have two interwoven half-hitches.
6. Pull the knot tight. If done correctly, both working ends will be sticking straight out from the knot.

Angler’s loop

The angler’s loop – or perfection loop – creates a fixed loop in a bungee cord. It holds incredibly well in bungee cords, however it is prone to jamming badly. This knot is best avoided if it will need to be untied later, but great for making a permanent, strong loop.

How to tie an angler’s loop:

1. Start with an underhand loop, the working end pointing down. 

2. Take the working end and cross it up over the standing part of the cord, then down to make an underhand loop under the standing part.

3. Bring the working end up over the intersection of the two loops and hold it there. Pull the left loop over the top of the working end, and then under and through the right hand loop.

4. As you pull the left loop through the right one, the knot will begin to tighten. 

Bungee cord accessories

You may only need to use bungee cord knots in very specific circumstances – most of the time, they can be used as they are. If you’re looking to use bungee cords for securing loads or tying things down, then there are a variety of bungee accessories that can be used alongside or in place of knots. 

With bungee accessories, you can DIY a bungee cord to fit any of your needs. For example, if you don’t have any bungee straps to hand but need a strong hook to secure your cord, these can be purchased separately and attached to a bungee cord. You can then use hog rings and hog ring pliers to crimp the bungee cord, which secures the hook onto the end. Read about how to crimp a bungee cord in our essential guide to hog ring pliers. 

Do you find yourself needing bungee cords for a range of activities and household projects? Take a look at some of the exciting ideas and useful guides on our blog to learn everything there is to know about bungee cords. If you’d like to place a custom order, or you’d like to receive advice from a member of our team, get in touch.