Lime bark twine / lime bast help

[slowworm]

I don't know if anyone can help with this but I thought it worth posting, I'm not sure if they are still looking but it would be worth an email if anyone is interested. I've already PMed PatrickM.

It's a request from the Institure of Chartered Foresters, http://www.charteredforesters.org to get help from someone who makes rope etc from lime bark for a piece on BBC Countryfile.

Full email here: http://us5.campaign-archive2.com/?u=...6&e=ddc35662ba

Dear Member

The ICF has just been contacted by BBC Countryfile which is researching an item for a programme to be filmed very soon. The researcher is desperate to get information on twine made form lime trees and has approached the ICF as our members are the most likely to know of this practice.

The story for Countryfile is about the coppicing of an ancient lime. The tree itself is long gone, but there’s a collection of stools which will be cut in a couple of weeks time. Their filming day is 15 November 2012.

Apparently, one of the old and traditional uses for the cut stems was to use part of the bark to make cordage, rope or twine; the technique is called ‘Lime Bast’.

The researcher is keen to find out about how the rope or twine was made, and whether anyone in the UK still has the skills today?

If you think you can help, let me know as soon as possible so that I can put you in touch.

Kind regards

Lynne Sneddon
Marketing Officer

(Her email address can be found here: http://www.charteredforesters.org/about-the-icf/item/4/ )




(Note to mods, I have asked permission to post but if anyone wishes to remove or move the post please do).

 

[robin wood]

Ah I had this request through another route earlier today but with less info. Ideally the bast would be retted before making cordage, it's easy enough to twist a bit up for the cameras anyone can do it but it works much better after retting. I suspect this is the ancient lime stool at Westonbirt arboretum which is due for cutting this year.

 

[Angst]

yup i would think patricks ya man however it seems he doesnt sign into bcuk that often (too busy making amazing cordage)...maybe email him thru his website?