Cobra knot

The knot most people start with. Two working ends alternate around a core, producing a flat braid with a ladder on the back.

Tying it

1. Set the core to the finished length, allowing for the buckle.
2. Bring the left working end over the core and under the right end.
3. Take the right end under the core and up through the loop on the left.
4. Pull both ends until the knot sits square against the core.
5. Repeat, starting from the right, then alternate every knot.

Notes

Starting every knot on the same side produces the king cobra's cousin, a twisted spiral. That is a different pattern, not a mistake, but it is not a cobra.

Watch it tied