How to Make a Rope Halter for a Calf

To lead a calf, there's no need to purchase an expensive leather halter. A simple and inexpensive adjustable halter can be easily fashioned from a length of ordinary three strand manila rope. The halter can be made in a range of sizes to accommodate different types of calves. With the right rope and equipment, you can put an adjustable rope calf halter together in a matter of minutes.

Things You'll Need

  • 12 foot length of 3/8 to 7/16 manila rope
  • Two large hog rings
  • Ring pliers
  • Electrical tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Crimp a hog ring onto the rope near each end to prevent them from unraveling. Wrap each end with electrical tape.

    • 2

      Measure 10 inches from one end of the rope. Twist the rope in the opposite direction it is wound until the strands start to separate and lift one strand up.

    • 3

      Insert the end of the long portion of the rope under the strand. Pull the rope through until it forms a tight eye loop.

    • 4

      Twist the short length of rope again and raise another strand. Insert the end of the short rope under the strand and pull it through until tight. This will finish the eye of the halter.

    • 5

      Twist the end of the short section of rope opposite the direction it is wound until three of the strands form three consecutive loops, called the adjustment loops.

    • 6

      Thread the end of the long section of the rope through the adjustment loops, one at a time, toward the end of the short section of rope. The short section will act as the nose piece.

    • 7

      Pull the long rope through, leaving about a three foot section behind the loops to form the stall, which fit behind the calf's head. Thread the end of the long section of the rope through the eye of the halter to form the chin strap.

    • 8

      Pull the chin strap and stall open to easily fit over the calf's head. Approach the calf and place the nose piece on the calf's nose and the chin strap under the chin. Pull the head stall over the calf's ears and behind its head. Hold the adjustment loops and pull the chin strap until the stall fits firmly, but not tightly, around the calf's head. Pull the long rope to tighten the chin strap.