How to make cordage from nettles?

[Toby_2008]

Hi,

Could someone please talk me through (or link me to somewhere) how to make cordage fibers (I can do the actual twisting part) from nettles? Also, can this be done at this time of year?

Cheers,

Toby

 

[spamel]

Look on youtube, there's bound to be a video. In fact, if you stick Ray Mears in on the search as well as nettles you're bound to come up with a video.

 

[SimonM]

1. Choose nettles that are long.
   
2. Grab the base of the nettle, brushing the hairs upwards - be aggressive to avoid stings, and cut it off close to the ground.
   
3. Holding the base of the nettle in one hand, run your other hand up towards the tip of the nettle to remove the leaves. Again, be aggressive to avoid stings!
   
4. Use a stone or the butt of your knife handle to break the nodes.
   
5. Split the base end of the nettle with your knife, then use your thumb to open it up along the full length.
   
6. Open the nettle up like a book, then fold in half going against the spine.
   
7. Work loose the white pith with your thumb nail, then remove by pulling the outer fibres whilst holding the inner pith in place.
   
8. Leave to dry over night in a warm place.
   
9. Twist to make cordage.

HTH

Simon

EDIT:

Yes it can be done at this time of year - I made some last week on the Woodlore Fundamentals course!

 

[Mesquite]

Where abouts do you live Toby? Only if it's not too far I can come over and show you how to make nettle cordage

 

[Toby_2008]

cheers guys, thats really helped and I found a decent youtube video too!

Mesquite, thanks but I think I have all the info i need now!

Cheers,

Toby

 

[Mesquite]

Mesquite, thanks but I think I have all the info i need now!

No probs. If you do find you still need a hand then drop me a PM

 

[scubapauly]

Making cordage would be a good theme for an afternoon Hertfordshire meet

 

[Ben]

Here is an article on making nettle cordage Lisa wrote a few years ago.

Hope it helps.


http://www.woodsmoke.uk.com/documen...ticle_-_nettle_cordage_-_camping_magazine.pdf

 

[javi]

Cheers Ben - that's a handy article. Making cordage was one of my least favourite topics during a recent course, so I'll be off to grab some and practice now...