How to Tie a Tripod Lashing Step by Step

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Written Instructions — Tripod Lashing

Lay three poles flat Line up three poles side by side with tops aligned.
Clove hitch on outer pole Begin with a clove hitch on an outer pole near the top.
4–5 wraps around all three poles Wrap around all three together 4–5 times, keeping wraps loose.
Frapping between each pair Two frapping turns between each adjacent pole pair — three frapping positions.
Spread and stand up Clove hitch to finish. Poles 1 and 3 same direction, pole 2 opposite.

The secret to a sturdy tripod is the frapping turns — skipping them leaves a floppy joint that won't support weight.
Spread poles alternately: left, right, left or 1-out, 2-opposite, 3-out for best stability.
Use poles that taper — thick end down — for a more stable tripod.
A properly lashed tripod should support 100 lbs at the peak.