Here’s a great demonstration of how to tie a nail knot when you don’t have a special tool or an actual nail. This comes in handy when you have to attach a leader to a fly line on the water. This isn’t a knot you’ll use every day, but when you need it, you’ll really need it. So learn this and commit it to memory. Someday, you’ll thank yourself. (Hat tip: Midcurrent.)

fantastic will practice until the cows come home to teach my mates
fantastic will practice until the cowa come home to teach my mates
Bull! Anyone can tie it on a large dowel. Try it on a flexible fly line with a stiff leader butt while sitting on a rock. I’ll take my chances losing the tool rather than go through that frustration.
Come on Wayne, have a little self-confidence. I have but 8 fingers and John’s method translates nicely for me. Yep, my 8 fingers and my 2 opposable thumbs do the trick! Fare thee well, sir.
Va. Cork
A simple Uni-Knot is really all you need. Superior to a Nail Knot in every way.