How To Tie Knots in Aerial Silks

This article covers how to tie knots in aerial silks and aerial fabric.

Aerial silks are a popular and versatile tool used in aerial arts and acrobatics. These long, flowing fabrics provide a unique and challenging workout, and can be used to perform a variety of aerial maneuvers and acrobatic feats.

But to use aerial silks safely and effectively, it is important to know how to tie knots in the fabric.

In this blog post, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to tie knots in aerial silks, as well as some tips and tricks for creating secure and reliable knots.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional aerial artist or just starting out, learning how to tie knots in aerial silks is an essential skill that will help you take your aerial practice to new heights.

So let’s get started on this exciting and rewarding journey!

How to Tie Knots in Aerial Silks

The most basic knot can be tied as follows:

Gather the silk up in small folds so that it is like a rope, equal in thickness when done secure the ends with elastic to hold them in place.
Place the silk over your left arm with the shorter end hanging over the front (for securing to a carabiner or O-Ring) This short part should be about an arm’s length.
Hold the shorter end in your other hand out to the right.
Use your left hand to grab the silk hanging down from the same arm, by passing your left hand over the length held by your right hand.
Then release the right side and use that hand to help you pull your hand up through the loop you’ve created in the silk.
Attach the loop to a carabiner and pass any remaining material through the knot – tightening it at the same time by pulling the longer end until the knot is tight

How To Tie Other Types of Knots In Aerial Silks

Overhand Knot

Method

This is a common knot you’ll find used when rigging aerial silks:

Gather the silk up in small folds by walking your fingers over it so that it is like a rope, equal in thickness when done. Securing the ends with elastic to hold them in place can make life a bit easier.
Place the Silk over your left arm with the shorter end hanging over the front (for securing to a carabiner or O ring this short part doesn’t need to be very long, an arms length will do.
Hold the shorter end in your other hand out to the right.
Use your left hand to grab the silk hanging down from the same arm, by passing your left hand over the length held by your right hand
Then release the right side and use that hand to help you pull your hand up through the loop you’ve created in the silk.
Attach the loop to a carabiner and pass any remaining material through the knot tightening it at the same time by pulling the longer end until the knot is tight

Bowline Knot

Method

It’s best to attempt this one with your silks on the floor

Like with the Overhand Knot you, gather the silk up in small folds so that it is like a rope, equal in thickness when done
Lay your silk out, and at one end make a loop in the silk by looping around an arms length over the rest. keep it gathered, with room inside so you can fit your arm through.
Next place Carabiner or O-Ring on the short end
Move your right hand from the top and through the small loop you made, use your other hand to pass the remaining short end to your right hand so you can pull it through the loop. Be careful, keep the silk as neat as possible with space in the loop.
Use your left hand to hold the silk loop steady, and place the remaining short end over the developing knot to the right.
Next the short end will pass under the long part of the silk, and be put back through the loop so it is on the ground side
Hold both sides where the silk is still free and tighten the knot while retaining a gap where the carabiner or Oring is. Keep going until the knot is tight and secure.

More Aerial Silk Knots

There are other knots out there, but they are bit difficult to describe in writing, as they feature straps so we have found a few videos that can help:

Sling Knot

Prusik Knot

Daisy Chain/Braid

⚠ Things To Be Aware of When Tying Knots in Aerial Silks

If you are attaching to a carabiner or O-Ring make sure it is properly rated for what you are doing, but also large enough for the amount of material you have.

Remember a knot is only as good as it has been tied, check and double check when the knot is done and go easy on it for a bit to make sure.

Practice makes perfect, keep repeating the knot to become sure of the process and more confident in your abilities.

Always consult a teacher or experienced aerialist when starting out at home, they will be invaluable to have around when you start out, and can advise on if they feel you are ready to begin solo aerial yoga.

Aerial Silks and Safety

Always always ALWAYS get your knots checked by an experienced aerial rigger. Your aerial hardware should be inspected before each use. Look for signs of wear or any dents that could affect its safety rating.

It’s always advisable to use a crash mat when practising aerial silks at home.

Avoid wearing jewellery, rings, watches and DON’T leave your long hair down – it can easily get caught up in the fabric. Use a hair tie – it’s not hard!

Finally, make sure you wear wear suitable clothing for aerial silks.

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To wrap things up, we hope this blog post has given you a clear and comprehensive understanding of how to tie knots in aerial silks.

Not only will these knots keep you safe while performing, but the knowledge and ability to confidently create knots in your silk will also give you the confidence and peace of mind to focus on your aerial progress.

With time, practice and patience, you’ll soon be able to tie knots in aerial silks with ease!