Make String from Natural Sources

Are you in the middle of a thicket and need some string or rope? Many types of plants contain useful fiber; the dried common stinging nettle is a good source for string. Willow bark can provide what you need for making strong cordage.

Steps

 * 1) Set a fire and boil a large pan of water.
 * 2)  Add the ashes of a previous fire into the pot.
 * 3) Select a willow branch around the thickness of a man's wrist while the water is boiling.
 * 4) Gently split the bark of the willow and peel it away from the branch.
 * 5) Remove the thicker outer bark completely. If left on, it will cause your string to be brittle.
 * 6) Cut the inner bark so that you are left with thin strips.
 * 7) Place the inner bark strips into the pan of water and ashes and simmer for around an hour.
 * 8) Dry the fiber completely before twining or braiding into cordage.
 * 9)  Twist both ends of your cord in the same direction (this makes a natural loop)
 * 10)  Continue this until you have cordage of the desired length
 * 11)  It is possible to repeat this and twist two already corded sections together

Warnings

 * Be very careful when working with fire and sharp knives.

Things You'll Need

 * Axe
 * Sharp knife
 * Fire
 * Large cooking pan
 * Water
 * Ashes
 * Willow branch

Related Tips and Steps

 * How to Make Lye
 * How to Plan a Backpacking Trip
 * How to Make Water in the Desert
 * How to Build a Swamp Bed
 * How to Survive a Living Hell

Sources and Citations

 * eHow: How to Relieve Yourself in the Woods
 * eHow: How to Cook in the Wilderness
 * http://www.primitiveways.com/cordage.html (an excellent resource on twining fiber)
 * http://www.villagespinweave.com