Bushcraft Workshop – Nettle Cordage
Tortworth Arboretum
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Nettles are amazing plants; no only do they provide us with the materials to make stinging nettle cordage, they’re also edible, full of nutrients and have medicinal properties.
Did you know that nettles have been made to make everything from binding, necklaces cords, bracelets, hafting tools, nets, small baskets etc for more than 3000 years? Nettles are of great interest at present since they one of most sustainable local fibres you can imagine.
During this evening walk and talk we will gather stinging nettles (Fun fact: Nettles won’t sting after being harvested) and discover their history. You will see how to extract nettle fibre, and (using some we prepared earlier) learn a simple way to work it by hand so it can be used for weaving, knitting or crochet.
We will also spend a bit of time looking at other cordage materials, some more obvious than others.
Cordage is essential when you are spending any amount of time in the outdoors; learning how to make your own cordage is therefore an important bushcraft skill.
Knowledge required: Perfect for beginners!
Group size 12 maximum.
Minimum age: We think this event is best suited to those 10+. If you’re bringing a child along with you please do let us know their age when booking.
