The participants will need 2 pieces of rope to practice in class. I suggest using 2 nylon rope pieces that are each 1 meter (3 feet) long and 6mm (1/4 inch) thick. I prefer rope at this thickness for learning to tie knots because it allows each knot to be easily examined and also untied to allow the rope to be used again. Look for rope that is flexible and not too shiny or slippery. Strength is irrelevant. 3 feet is longer than what you may actually need for the purpose of learning to tie this knot, but will be useful when learning other knots that require longer rope. Avoid polypropylene rope – commonly blue or yellow – sold for water-ski towlines. It is not pleasant to handle and knots don’t hold well. The learners will also need to have some type of dowel, walking stick, broom handle, etc. to use when tying the knots.