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How to Make Your Own Cordage from Natural Materials
- UKSN
- Aug 27
- 5 min read
In today’s modern world, it’s easy to overlook the simple skills that sustained humans for millennia. Making your own cordage from natural materials is one of those foundational skills that can enhance your outdoor adventures, camping trips, bushcraft practices, and self-sufficiency projects.
Whether you’re preparing for a family camping trip, a UKSN event, or just looking to strengthen your bushcraft skills, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about creating strong, reliable cordage using materials you can find in nature.
Why Making Your Own Cordage Matters
Cordage, essentially rope or string made from natural fibres, has been a crucial tool throughout human history. It can be used for building shelters, making traps, tying tools, creating lanyards, or even crafting decorative items. For UKSN members, developing this skill encourages:
Self-sufficiency – relying less on manufactured products.
Practical bushcraft skills – building confidence in the outdoors.
Environmental awareness – using renewable, natural materials.
Community engagement – sharing skills at UKSN camps and events.
The beauty of making your own cordage is that it connects you with nature and shows just how resourceful humans can be with simple, available materials.
What You’ll Need: Gathering Natural Materials
Before starting, you’ll need to collect the right types of natural fibres. Not all plants are suitable for strong cordage, so understanding your options is essential. Here are some commonly used fibres in the UK:
Bast Fibres
Bast fibres come from the inner bark of trees. In the UK, suitable trees include:
Lime (Linden)
Willow
Elm
Ash
These fibres are long, flexible, and strong, making them perfect for cordage.
Grass and Plant Leaves
Some grasses and leaves can be twisted into cordage, though they are generally better suited for temporary or decorative uses. Examples include:
Nettle
Ivy
Reeds
Long blades of grass
Nettle fibre, once processed, is surprisingly strong and durable.
Other Natural Materials
Coconut husks – often imported but very strong.
Bark strips – especially from younger, flexible trees.
When collecting fibres, always ensure that harvesting is sustainable. Take only what you need and avoid damaging trees or depleting wild plants.
Preparing Your Materials
Once you’ve gathered your fibres, preparation is key to making strong cordage. Here’s how to get started:
Stripping and Peeling
For bast fibres, carefully peel the inner bark away from the tree. Avoid the outer woody bark.
For nettle or grass, remove the leaves or cut to manageable lengths.
Retting (Optional)
Retting is a natural process of soaking fibres to loosen them from the plant material. For tougher fibres like nettle:
Soak the fibres in water for several days.
Once softened, scrape or rub away the remaining plant matter.
Drying
After retting or stripping, allow fibres to dry slightly, making them easier to handle but still pliable.
Methods for Making Cordage
There are several techniques for creating cordage from natural fibres. Each has its advantages depending on the thickness and strength you require.
Simple Twisting
This is the most straightforward method:
Divide your fibres into two equal bundles.
Twist each bundle tightly in one direction.
Fold the two bundles together in the opposite direction.
The opposing twists lock the fibres, creating a strong cord.
Simple twisting works well for thin cordage, suitable for tying small items or craft projects.
Three-Strand Braiding
Braiding provides extra strength and flexibility:
Divide fibres into three equal strands.
Cross the outer strands over the middle one in sequence, just like plaiting hair.
Keep the tension even for a consistent cord.
This method produces a thicker cord, ideal for shelters or heavier tasks.
Loop and Roll Technique
Used in bushcraft for thicker ropes:
Roll small bundles of fibre between your palms until tightly twisted.
Connect these twists by looping and rolling them together.
Continue until your desired length is achieved.
This technique is especially useful for making cordage from shorter fibres.
Tips for Strong, Durable Cordage
Consistency is key: Keep your twists and tension even to avoid weak spots.
Use long fibres: Longer fibres produce stronger, more durable cordage.
Layering: For very strong cordage, twist several thinner cords together.
Keep it clean: Remove any leaves, bark, or debris that could weaken the fibres.
Test your cordage: Gently pull to check for weak points before relying on it for heavier tasks.
Practical Uses of Cordage in the Outdoors
Cordage is versatile and invaluable for anyone spending time outdoors. At UKSN events and camps, members use cordage for:
Shelters and Tarps: Securing tarps or tying knots for lean-tos.
Bushcraft Tools: Making handles, lanyards, or binding tools.
Food Preparation: Crafting fish traps or drying racks.
Emergency Situations: Temporary repairs for gear or clothing.
Recreational Activities: Creating swings, nets, or decorative crafts.
Mastering cordage-making is a skill that combines creativity with practicality, making it perfect for family activities in the outdoors.
Making Cordage With Children
At UKSN, we encourage family-friendly outdoor learning. Making cordage is an excellent activity for kids:
It teaches patience and fine motor skills.
Children gain confidence in using natural resources safely.
It can be incorporated into broader outdoor challenges or crafts.
It fosters a sense of accomplishment when they see their finished cordage used in real-life situations, like tying a small shelter or creating a decorative bracelet.
Cordage Maintenance and Storage
Once made, natural cordage needs proper care to last:
Keep dry: Moisture can weaken fibres over time. Store in a cool, dry place.
Avoid sunlight: Prolonged UV exposure can degrade natural fibres.
Regular checks: Inspect for fraying or damage, especially if used for load-bearing purposes.
Coiling: Coil cordage neatly to prevent tangling.
By maintaining your cordage, you ensure it remains a reliable tool for future camping, bushcraft, and self-sufficiency activities.
Joining a UKSN Charter to Learn More
UKSN Charters are member-run, mutual assistance groups that provide support and hands-on learning opportunities. Joining a Charter is an excellent way to develop your cordage skills:
Attend workshops and training sessions.
Participate in camping trips with experienced members.
Exchange tips and techniques for sustainable bushcraft practices.
Access shared tools and resources for outdoor activities.
Learning with a community adds motivation, safety, and the chance to share knowledge across generations.
FAQ – Natural Cordage Making
What plants are best for making cordage in the UK? Bast fibres like lime, willow, elm, and ash are ideal. Nettle, ivy, and reeds can also work, especially for smaller projects.
How long does it take to make cordage? Simple cordage can be made in minutes if fibres are prepared. More complex or thicker cords may take hours, depending on technique and length.
Can cordage made from natural fibres support weight? Cordage can support weight, but it depends on the plant material and thickness. Bast fibres are strongest, while grasses are better for light-duty applications.
Is making cordage safe for children? With supervision and safe materials, cordage-making is family-friendly and educational.
How do I store natural cordage? Natural cordage should be kept dry, away from sunlight, and coil neatly to avoid tangles. Regularly check for fraying.
Can cordage be used in emergencies? Natural cordage is ideal for emergencies and can be used for temporary repairs, shelter building, or lashing tools and equipment. It’s a valuable skill for outdoor self-sufficiency.
Final Thoughts
Learning to make cordage from natural materials is more than a survival skil, it’s a gateway to deeper outdoor knowledge and connection with nature. UKSN members of all ages can enjoy this craft, enhancing bushcraft competence, family bonding, and practical self-sufficiency. Whether you’re preparing for a UKSN camping trip, experimenting in your backyard, or simply appreciating the craft, natural cordage making is a skill that rewards patience, creativity, and respect for the environment.
By practising and sharing this skill, you’re contributing to a stronger, self-reliant, and adventurous UKSN community. Gather your fibres, roll up your sleeves, and start twisting, your next outdoor adventure awaits
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