Natural Cordage Resources and Inspiration

Cordage is made from lengths of fiber twisted together to make it stronger than it would be otherwise. I started experimenting with making natural cordage from my local plants during quarantine and enjoyed the meditative and satisfying process. Here are some of the most helpful resources I’ve found along the way!

 
Clothespins holding examples of different cordage plants, including cattail, nettle, velvet leaf, and willow
 

harvesting note:

If you choose to look for cordage plants on your own, be sure to observe good wildcrafting protocol: don’t collect on private land without permission, don’t over-harvest (take only the best specimens / 1 out of 5 stalks), and don’t disturb any animals or animal habitats while collecting. It’s always nice to say please and thank you if you think of it. :)


Cordage-making Tutorials

Written Instructions

Video tutorials

Cordage Plants (KS + North America)

Plants in N.E. KS I’ve had success with:

(N.B.: bast refers to a layer of long, strong, flexible fibers between the outer bark and pith (core) of a plant. Also sometimes called “inner bark.”)

  • Mulberry bast

  • Willow bast

  • Juniper (Eastern Red Cedar) root

  • Grapevine

  • Nettle (stinging and wood)

  • Dogbane hemp

  • Milkweed (several varieties)

  • Daylily leaves

Cordage-harvesting + processing supplies

Harvesting:

  • Pruners

  • Gardening gloves

  • Something to carry long stalk materials (I use a cotton zip-up yoga bag)

  • Optional for brambles: piece of leather or denim for stripping thorns

Processing:

  • Sharp knife (pocket knife / craft knife)

  • Plastic razor blade scraper (good for removing outer bark without damaging fibers)

  • When making cordage: plastic bin for soaking fiber or a spray bottle of water + towel to wrap them in

Storage for whole stalks/branches (if taking home to process later), cordage fibers, and finished cordage


Inspiration

If you haven’t already checked out Sally Pointer and Suzie Grieve’s accounts up above, you should!

Facebook Groups

I have a Pinterest board with some techniques and craft ideas saved here.

Animated Carrick Bend Mat Knot

If you have a resource that you think belongs here, drop a comment below!


Last updated: Feb 16 2023 (added photo)