Start with the Core Quick-Release Technique above, the you can immediately begin adding shoulder straps by running the tail up toward the shoulder, or…

(Optional) … If, as is often the case, you plan to have a second wrap so that you have two layers of scales, you can add that second wrap now…

…then run the tail under itself…

…then run the tail up toward the shoulder.

Either way, now bring the tail over the shoulder to the middle of the top line.

Connect to this top wrap however you like. There are many options, but as you will be using Cow Hitch everywhere else, that can be an excellent choice that will complement the overall design.

Bring the tail over the opposite shoulder…

… to the node at the back.

If you are almost out of rope…

…just lock off at this point. Then begin creating the first layer of your pattern with a different rope. (See “Adding a New Rope…” below)

If you have lots of rope left…

…add a Crossing Hitch (with the first tail pull toward the inside of the body)…

…to connect to the tail to the strap and begin making the first layer of your pattern!