How to Tie a Wild Rag

Wild rags are a must-have accessory for any cowboy or cowgirl. Typically made from silk or a silk blend, these lightweight scarfs are perfect to don on cold days when you're looking for a little extra warmth. They can also be dunked in water when it's hot out for a gradual cooling sensation! Designed in different colors, patterns, and sizes, wild rags have multiple uses and can be seen from ranch work to fashion.

No matter how you choose to wear your wild rag, knowing how to tie it correctly is a necessity. In this helpful how-to guide, we will go over two types of knots: the basic square knot and buckaroo knot. We will also address the numerous ways you can wear your wild rag, so you stand out in your own unique way with this apparel accessory!

There are many different ways to tie your wild rag, but the most common two methods are the basic square knot and buckaroo knot. The basic square knot is perfect for beginners, and it's a good option for those who prefer a simple and fast knot. The buckaroo knot is more complicated and has a few extra steps to complete the look. We've listed below the step-by-step instructions, so you can follow along at home!

Basic Square Knot

1. Fold your square wild rag into a triangle.
2. Pick up the wild rag and keep the triangle pointed downward on your chest. Bring the two long ends up, over, and around your neck.
3. Just like you are tying a normal knot, take the right piece in your right hand, go over the left piece, under, and back over.
4. With the left piece in your left hand, go over the right piece, under, and back over.
5. Adjust the knot to make sure the end pieces are even.
6. Pull down on the triangle point on your chest to tighten the wild rag to your preference.

Buckaroo Knot

1. Fold your square wild rag into a triangle.
2. Pick up the wild rag and keep the triangle pointed downward on your chest. Bring the two ends up, over, and around your neck.
3. Make a "rock on" sign with your left hand. With the left piece in your right hand, wrap the end once over your pointer finger and tuck the excess underneath your pinky finger.
4. With the right piece in your right hand, go underneath the straight section in your left hand, just below your pointer finger. Bring the piece up and around your left hand, then back under to the right side.
5. Release the left piece out from under your pinky finger, but keep it secure in your left hand. Make sure the left piece stays underneath the right piece.
6. With the right piece in your right hand, slide the end all the way through the hole you have around your pointer finger.
7. Tighten and adjust the knot to make sure the end pieces are even.
8. Pull down on the triangle point on your chest to tighten the wild rag to your preference.

The Western fashion world is making big changes and statements. Wild rags can be worn in so many unique ways other than just around your neck. Here are some of our favorite ways to accessorize a wild rag!

• Headband: Tie the headband around your head and secure a knot toward the back, at the base of your neck. Leave the extra pieces down and let them move with your hair, or tuck them up and under the wild rag to have no loose ends.
• Belt loop: Securely tie your wild rag to a belt loop on the side of your hip for a pop of color to your outfit.
• Braided: Once your hair is braided, you can wear the wild rag as a headband and weave the extra ends into your braid. Or, simply begin at the top of your braid and take the middle of your wild rag, wrap both ends around the center section of the braid, then begin braiding the ends into your hair downward.
• Bracelet: Wrap the wild rag around your wrist a few times to the tightness of your liking and securely tie it to ensure it does not fall off.
• Ponytail: To spice up your daily outfit and hair-do, tie a wild rag to your ponytail.
• Headscarf: The wild rag headscarf is becoming a common trend. Place the wild rag on top of your head and securely knot the ends to ensure it stays in place.
• Purse: By tying a wild rag to your purse strap, you can add a personal touch and give your bag a new look.
• Scarf Slide: If you want a super quick way to dress up your wild rag without actually tying it, you can use a scarf slide to literally slide the ends through—and that's it! Typically adorned in some way, these scarf slides are perfect for adding an extra bit of flair to your wild rag look.

It can take some time to learn how to properly tie a wild rag, as some knots are more complicated than others. Learning the art of tying a wild rag not only adds flair to your western riding look but helps keep you comfortable during any weather. With these tips and tricks up your sleeve, you'll be turning heads on the ranch or out on the town in no time.

With many colors and patterns to choose from, wild rags are a great addition to your wardrobe (and a great gift idea). Now that you've got the basics down, you're ready to rock this classic accessory. If you have more questions, don't hesitate to reach out to our customer service team at info@ridingwarehouse.com or 1(800) 620-9145 for assistance. Happy riding!