I found this great video online from SageSmokeSurvival on how to make cordage from raw material. I was hooked! Watch the video and check out the step-by-step summary I made for you below.
Full disclosure: haven't tried this yet, but I will.
1. Identify Suitable Plants
- Common plants for cordage include Dogbane, Milkweed, Stinging Nettle, Yucca, Willow, Juniper, and Sagebrush.
- Ensure proper identification, especially when differentiating Dogbane from Milkweed (due to toxicity in Dogbane). Look for key traits such as opposite branching and white sap in Dogbane.
2. Harvest the Plant Stalks
- Best time to harvest is when the plant is in its dead, dried state (typically fall or winter).
- Use a knife to cut the thickest stalks near the base.
- Ensure that the stalks are straight and hollow (common with Dogbane).
3. Prepare the Stalks for Fiber Extraction
- Break off any branches or leaves from the stalks.
- Crush the stalk by hand or use rocks to break the outer layer and expose the inner fibers.
4. Separate the Pith from the Fibers
- Bend the stalk to snap the pith and begin peeling it away from the outer skin.
- Be careful to peel small sections at a time to avoid pulling fibers off with the pith.
- Alternate peeling directions to minimize fiber loss.
5. Roll the Fibers
- Roll the stripped fibers between your hands to separate them further and make them more pliable.
- Continue teasing the fibers apart until they are fine enough for your intended cordage use (fishing line, thread, or general rope).
6. Begin Twisting the Cordage (Reverse Twist Method)
- Take a small bundle of fibers and find the middle. Twist the fibers clockwise until they kink.
- Fold the kinked bundle so that one part is on top and the other on the bottom.
- Continue twisting the top piece clockwise, then wrap it under counterclockwise to create the reverse twist.
- Keep repeating this process, moving along the length of the fibers.
7. Splice in New Fibers for Longer Cordage
- When the fibers get too short, splice in new fibers by laying them along the existing cord and continue twisting. This creates a seamless, knot-free rope.
8. Strengthen and Test the Cordage
- The thickness of the cord can be adjusted by starting with a thicker bundle or adding more fibers.
- Test the strength of your cordage by pulling on it. Thicker cords are stronger but less flexible, while thinner cords are good for applications like fishing lines.
9. Alternative Methods: Thigh Rolling
- For faster cordage production, roll the fibers on your thigh to twist them more quickly.
- This method works best for longer fibers but can be trickier to keep even.
10. Practice and Experiment
- Try different plants and methods to improve your speed and skill.
- Consistency is key; your cordage is only as strong as its thinnest point.
Final Notes
- Cordage making is an essential outdoor skill, and practicing it can help you create strong, reliable materials from nature. Experiment with different plants to see which works best in your area.
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