Here's an alternative way to tie what ends up a traditional bowline knot - but tied in a way that feels and looks very different. In fact, the first few times you do it this way, you don't think you'll end up with a bowline at all, but some sort of slip knot.
If you've never tied a bowline, try the traditional way first. Then learn this "fancy" way to do it and wow your friends. It almost looks like sleight of hand!
It's easiest to learn this knot with the line on a tabletop as shown in these photos. Once you have it down, you can perform it easily in the air. Start with the loose end draped over the top of your left wrist as shown, with the end pointing away the direction your fingers point.
