AboutRenee Aun Expertise I know a little bit about cordage and basic basket weaves. My knowledge of cordage also includes how to make natural cordage.
Since no expert is here, I'll try to help until someone wiser than myself comes along.
Question I am currently researching Native American lifestyle and how they can contribute to modern outdoors skills. I am currently looking for information on natural cordage and have found some very basic sources on how it is made,but I am looking for some more in depth sources. Can you offer any information about cordage making that extents beyond twist and roll? Any information is greatly appreciated.
CHRIS
Answer Well Chris,
I've taken a few days to research what you may be looking for. I know it's technically not "cordage" but in the southern regions, date and palm fronds and fibers were used to weave baskets. In the NE, water reeds and pine needles were used as were split corn stalks.
Many other natural fibers were used. it depended on the use and whether or not it was to be:
1. Handwoven
a. Checkerworth: the warp and weft having the same width, thickness and pliability;
b. Diagonal or twilled; weaving two or more weft strands over two or more warp strands;
c. Wickerwork: weaving a slender flexible weft over a rigid warp;
d. Wrapped weft, also referred to as single weft wrapped; the weft is wrapped about the warp, or by making a "bite" as it crosses the warp;
e. Twined or waddled; has a weft of two or more elements
2. Coiled baskets
a. Coiled work w/o a foundation
b. Simple interlocking coils
c. Single-rod foundation
d. Two-rod foundation
e. rod and welt foundation
f. two rod and splint foundation
g. three-rod foundation
h. Splint foundation
i. Grass coil foundation
j. Fuegian coiled types
Are you confused yet? As far as just plain making cordage, the way they accomplished it and even the way I was taught as a young child in my knitting class is twist and roll. Todays rope manufacturers still use the method today. (they don't end up with skin thickened thighs or fingers!)
I hope that was helpful. My only other suggestion is your local library or purchase an old out of print book.
