Rope is available at most hardware stores, as well as many horse equipment retailers. Ropes made of synthetic materials tend to “burn” skin when dragged across the skin or through a clenched hand. For tying a horse halter, choose a rope that is between 1/2 inch to 9/16 inch in diameter. [2] X Research source
Place the rope on a firm wooden block to cut or chop it to length. Use a sharp knife or axe to cut the rope to whatever length you desire. A dull blade could cause frayed ends, which can weaken the strength of your rope.
melt the ends of the rope over an open flame[5] X Research source use a soldering iron to fuse the ends of the rope[6] X Trustworthy Source Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Iowa State University’s Extension and Outreach program dedicated to educating and engaging communities Go to source use a combination of soldering the ends and wrapping them in parachute cord wrap the rope with friction tape, applying two to three turns around the rope approximately 1/2 inch from the ends[7] X Research source
These knots will later become the noseband knots that hold the halter around your horse’s face.
Double check that the overhand knots from step one are still seven inches from the alternative fiador knot you’ve tied. Adjust the loops until they each measure approximately 2. 5 inches in length. Once everything is spaced and arranged as it needs to be, tighten the knots as needed.
Make sure the distance between the alternative fiador knot and the overhand knot is still between six and seven inches. Adjust as necessary before tightening the overhand knot into place.
Feed the end of the strand you’re working with through the overhand knot you’ve just formed. Pull it through the knot until you’re left with a small loop approximately two inches in length. Using the same strand of rope, feed the strand up and over the overhand knot you’ve formed, then bring it back down under the knot. Feed the strand through the center of the loop and back through the knot. Pull on the loop and the end of the strand simultaneously to tighten the knot. Double check the length of the rope between the two knots. It should measure approximately 9 to 10 inches in length.
Before you tighten the knot, cross the strand over and then under/behind the cheek piece. This should form a loose overhand knot. Then feed the strand back through the middle and tighten the knot. There should now essentially be a second knot directly against the noseband knot you’re working with (also called a double-overhand knot).
Adjust the knots as needed to balance the alternate fiador knot and the noseband piece. When everything is in place, tighten the knots.
Use caution when approaching any animal, especially if it’s an animal you’re not familiar with (and who isn’t familiar with you).
Take the end of the lead in your hand and form a loop. Make a second, smaller loop to the left of where the first loop is formed, and lay it off to the right. Form a third loop and feed it through the second, smaller loop. Tighten the loop to form a knot.
