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Posted on October 17, 2022November 21, 2022 by Rope Source — Leave a comment

10 of the best uses for decorative rope

hanging rope chair next to tables and plant with decorative rope wall features in the background

Decorative ropes are incredibly versatile and can be used for all sorts of crafts and DIY projects. No matter your skill level, a good quality decorative rope can be used to transform existing items or create brand new crafts. From flip flops to table legs, read on for 10 of the best uses for decorative rope.

1. Trimmings

Want to spruce up your furniture on a budget? Decorative rope can be used to add stylish trimmings to any furniture or curtains in your home. Strong decorative ropes, like this coloured cotton sash cord, come in over 30 colours and are the perfect choice for creating DIY trimmings. Whatever your home’s aesthetic, you’ll be sure to find the perfect colour to complement your existing furniture. Or, if you prefer a more rustic design, you could opt for a neutral decorative rope that will add a lovely texture to your furniture without being overpowering.

2. Clothes and accessories

For all the budding fashion designers out there, rope can be an exciting textile to work with. Whether you’re crafting bag handles or experimenting with a rope belt, decorative poly braids are the perfect choice for this. You could even create some cool rope jewellery – friendship bracelets are a simple yet cute accessory that make the perfect gift..

A helpful hack that’ll save you when summer rolls around is rope flip flops. Simply use your decorative rope to reinforce the thong of your flip flops, or replace it altogether. All it takes is a couple of simple knots!

3. Gift wrapping

Ever rushed to wrap a birthday present, but there’s no tape or wrapping paper to hand? If you’re caught in a pinch, neatly tying a gift with decorative rope can act as an embellishment to replace traditional wrapping. You can also use rope to tie paper around a gift, with no need for tape or adhesive.This provides you a great opportunity to try out some eco-friendly gift wrapping techniques, and it’s reusable too.

4. Fancy dress

Rope is a versatile material that you can use for pretty much any costume. Because decorative rope is often much softer than your run-of-the-mill natural rope, it won’t irritate your skin when wearing it. If you’re attending a Toga party anytime soon, a stunning gold cord is the best solution for tying your outfit together. For those of you really looking to impress, it’s even possible to create a puppet costume with ropes that control your arms and legs.

5. Macramé

There are so many macramé craft ideas out there for you to get stuck right into. It’s a really simple craft that’s ideal for beginners, and you can make just about anything, from macramé bags to wall hangings. You can use virtually any rope for these crafts, but there is also specialist macramé twine for more advanced macramé artists.

6. Seasonal decorations

Metallic decorative braids are the perfect way to create some seasonal cheer in your house. Grab some silver and gold braid to craft some handmade Christmas decorations – you can even use them as an eco-friendly substitute for plastic tinsel. Not to mention, this braid is gorgeous for wrapping Christmas presents that you want to sparkle and shine.

Decorative rope is also great for Halloween decorations – create a quick and easy giant spider’s web with any kind of rope you have on hand! We have lots of homemade Halloween craft ideas, and many of these can be repurposed for different occasions, too.

If you want attractive decorations that won’t go out of season, metallic braids can also be used to create space-themed decorations that are truly out of this world.

7. Around your garden

A popular garden DIY craft is using decorative rope to make a fence that can be placed around decking or the perimeters of your land. A good, sturdy rope is ideal for creating a decorative rope fence for visitors to use when exploring your garden, especially if the ground is uneven. They’ll also make your decking look more attractive, and you can incorporate bold colours to make your decorative garden rope fence stand out.

Decorative rope can also be used around your garden to build DIY furniture, such as rope chairs and outdoor ottomans. You don’t need to sacrifice bright colours when using decorative rope for these crafts, and our ropes are incredibly sturdy and waterproof to withstand all weather conditions.

8. Rope signs

Decorative rope is a reliable and charming way to hang signs both indoors and outdoors. Whether for a business or inside your home, decorative rope’s a simple solution for hanging any sign or picture frame on walls.

However, ropes can be used for much more than just hanging signs. You can create your own patterns or messages by glueing decorative rope to a board to create a customised sign. Decorative rope is really easy to manipulate, so crafters of any skill set can try their hand at creating a stunning rope sign. Make sure to craft your rope sign on a flat surface so you can lay out your chosen design before sticking it down to make sure you’re happy with it.

9. DIY home furnishings

There really are no limits to how rope can be used for DIY home furniture design. Simply grab your decorative rope and set it into a coil shape to create a simple rope bowl – perfect for storing keys or nick nacks. A similar technique is used to create plant pots, vases or lampshades from rope – all you need is rope and glue. You can also use rope to replace drawer handles – this feature can create a seaside feel when combined with other simple nautical home decor ideas.

If you want more of a challenge, why not create a large rug with your decorative rope? It’s pretty simple – just lay the rope in your desired spiral and adhere it together. If you still want to go bigger, try embellishing table legs by wrapping them with decorative rope.

10. Pet accessories

Pets can be destructive, so consistently buying more toys and accessories for them gets pretty expensive. Luckily, lots of pet accessories can be DIYed using decorative rope. You’ll never run out of your pet’s favourite rope chew toy, as decorative rope can be bought in rolls of up to 100m.

A rope basket is a great way to store pet toys that won’t get damaged easily if your pet likes to chew things. Decorative rope is waterproof and incredibly durable, so no need to worry about damage from slobbering mouths. Speaking of chewing – you can create a simple chew toy for your pet by tying two knots at each end of a length of rope. Perfect for tug of war!

Some more accessories that are easy to DIY are cat scratching posts and dog leashes. As your pet engages in some wear and tear, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your leash or toy can be replaced within minutes with some rope.

Not sure where to buy decorative rope? Look no further – we have a gigantic collection of ropes, twines and cords for all your home and garden improvement needs. Contact us to order your supply of decorative rope.

Posted on September 14, 2022September 29, 2022 by Rope Source — Leave a comment

5 uses for hessian fabric

What is hessian fabric?

Hessian fabric is a completely biodegradable material made from natural jute or sisal fibres. These fibres are woven together to form a strong breathable fabric. Hessian can withstand condensation and rough handling, making them popular for frost sheets and protecting outdoor items.

What is the difference between hessian and jute?

Hessian, although made from jute, has a different composition to regular jute material. Hessian is a finer form of jute – this is what makes it breathable – whereas jute itself is coarser. Both types have benefits, but hessian’s finer jute weave improves its storage capabilities due to having a greater air flow.

Uses of hessian fabric and hessian rolls

You may or may not have heard of hessian fabric, but there are actually a lot of uses for this biodegradable material. We have put together a list of uses for your hessian fabric:

Crafts

Hessian rolls are perfect for craft and home decor. Whether you’re repurposing your garden hessian sacks, or purchasing some new coloured hessian rolls, both are great for crafting. Make anything from hessian Christmas stockings and decorations, to everyday homeware items such as placemats and coasters. There are lots of different craft ideas to choose from.

Upholstery projects

If you have any upholstery projects, you can use hessian for these too. Padding chairs and sofas with hessian roll, or covering them with your choice of hessian, makes for a great addition to your home. Get in touch with your sustainable side and use hessian fabric on or in your furniture.

Hessian sacks

A common use of hessian is to form sacks. Hessian sacks can be used in a variety of ways and can also be reused over and over again – making them extremely sustainable. Due to the breathability of hessian sacks, they can be used to safely store rice, coffee, potatoes and other food items, and they’re great for storing outdoor possessions. Some hessian sacks are also rot proof, making them even more compatible with food and possession storage, and they can even be used for sack races on sports day, too.

These sacks can also be filled with sand to make hessian sandbags. These are great if you live in an area that is likely to flood, or if you want to give sandbag exercises a go to spice up your workouts.

Agricultural uses

Apart from storing the things you’ve grown, you can also use hessian fabric, and sacks, as grow bags. Hessian is the perfect material for a grow bag due to its breathability and its ability to protect plants from frost or other extreme weather conditions. Hessian rolls can also be wrapped around exposed roots to make transporting and replanting plants easier – prevents crop damage. As hessian is biodegradable, it ensures that everything in your garden remains natural.

Exposure protection

Used for both construction and agricultural purposes, hessian frost sheets are an ideal form of protection. Hessian can also withstand many other forms of extreme weather, such as heat, so keeping your items wrapped up in hessian is very beneficial.

Hopefully we have convinced you that hessian can have a wide range of uses. So, why not take a look at our hessian range? If you have any questions, our team is always on hand to help with any enquiries. Get in touch today.

Posted on August 25, 2022August 30, 2022 by Rope Source — Leave a comment

Which rope is best for decking?

decked bridge with decking rope and posts

What is decking rope?

Decking rope is a type of synthetic or natural rope used to cordon off decking areas. These ropes would usually be attached to posts surrounding a decked area.

Types of decking rope

There are two types of decking rope to choose from: natural or synthetic. The type of rope chosen depends entirely on preference, but there are different benefits to both.

Natural decking ropes

Natural decking ropes are made from natural materials – given the name – such as plant fibres. The bonus to using a natural rope is that they are biodegradable, and this is due to the plant fibres within the rope. However, they are still incredibly strong despite being made of sustainable materials, and make a perfect choice for decking rope.

Sisal and manila decking ropes are two plant-based options to choose from. With a three strand construction for extra strength, they both look great as a border to a decked area, patio or a garden bridge. Natural ropes are available in a variety of lengths and thicknesses, allowing you to choose a rope that meets your aesthetic or practical needs.

When it comes to outdoor use, we recommend pre-soaking your natural ropes as they will shrink when wet. This should be followed by treating sisal or manila ropes with a water repellant spray. In doing this, you’ll prevent any changes after installation and ensure longevity.

Synthetic decking ropes

Synthetic decking ropes are formed of, you guessed it, synthetic materials. Commonly, these types of ropes will contain polypropylene fibres. Synthetic fibres such as these are extremely hard-wearing and sturdy, so there is no chance of damage or breakages. When it comes to appearance, these ropes look and feel just like their plant fibred counterparts.

Polyhemp or hempex ropes are a great synthetic option and will suit any and all of your decking needs. These synthetic ropes come in a range of diameters with the same three strand combo, meaning that they are all equally as strong. They will also not shrink or react to heavy rainfall due to their waterproof properties.

Which rope is best for decking?

Many people prefer a synthetic polyhemp rope to a natural based decking rope; this is because synthetic ropes tend to last longer and are less prone to wear and tear. Synthetic ropes also look very similar to natural ropes, therefore they blend in nicely to outdoor spaces and don’t look tacky.

However, if you’re looking for an environmentally friendly rope option, natural ropes are still a great choice of decking rope. They may take a bit more care and upkeep than a synthetic rope, but they’re a lot better for the environment.

How to use decking ropes

Decking ropes have a wide variety of uses and not all of them involve decking. So, what else can you use your decking ropes for?

1. Decking areas

A favourite use of decking ropes is for decking areas. Whether you’ve recently added decking to your garden, to house patio furniture or maybe a hot tub, decking rope can also be a great addition to this. Construct a border around your decking with wooden posts and some rope. This will keep your area separate from the rest of the garden.

2. Garden bridges

If you’re lucky enough to have a small pond in your garden, it’s likely you can also fit a garden bridge. Decking rope can be used to create a handrail along your bridge for added safety, or a few can be used to make a fence either side.

3. Plant in sections

Decking rope can also be used to section off your plants, allowing you to keep your garden uniform and neat. Plus, when it comes to planting a new species, you can keep everything organised.

4. Rope swings

Making rope swings out of decking rope is a popular choice for those looking for a cool DIY project for their garden. Granted you will need quite a bit of space and a tree to get started, but it’s still a great use. We recommend purchasing a sturdy plank of wood to use for the seat and attaching your decking rope to this. However, it is best to look up some thorough instructions before starting.

5. Handrails and fencing

Section off your lawn from the path with a decking rope border. Or add some decking rope handrails to your outside steps.

Don’t forget to use decking rope fittings for all of your DIY or garden projects. If you need any extra advice on which decking rope to pick, or on how to maintain your natural decking ropes, contact our team today.

Posted on August 10, 2022August 30, 2022 by Rope Source — Leave a comment

How to use garden twine

What is garden twine?

Garden twine is an essential item for gardeners. It can be used for multiple different purposes and can be incorporated into a range of gardening projects. From creating DIY hanging planters, to tying and supporting climbing plants, garden twine really can do it all.

What is garden twine made of?

Garden twine can be made from a variety of materials, both natural and synthetic. From jute to polypropylene, there is an extensive range of garden twine available. They also come in a range of camoflaguable colours, such as brown and green, to seamlessly merge with your outdoor space. They certainly won’t impact your garden’s aesthetic.

Natural garden twine

natural jute garden twine, brown and green

Natural garden twine is a great, sustainable option for gardening fanatics. As jute twine is biodegradable, it is the perfect environmentally-friendly choice for your garden. Keep everything as nature intended with some jute garden twine.

Synthetic garden twine

Synthetic twine is extremely strong and versatile when it comes to its uses in the garden. Polypropylene garden twine will last a lot longer than its natural counterpart, however it is not biodegradable and should be disposed of properly after use.

How to use garden twine

So, what can you use garden twine for? Well, its immense versatility means there are actually quite a few potential options available, so many in fact that it’s become a staple amongst horticulturists.

1. Tying and supporting plants

Tying climbing plants helps not only with supporting and aiding their growth, but it’ll make your garden look a lot tidier and less overgrown. Using gardening twine, tie your climbing plants to a support, such as a fence or wire mesh, to ensure a happy growing period. Green jute garden twine is great for tying or supporting your plants, and will blend right in with your garden’s aesthetic.

2. Hanging onions, garlic or herbs to dry

a cast iron stove with garlic hung up to dry

Drying garlic and onions is a must, and missing out this step will most likely result in your crops rotting during the storage period. You can use any sort of garden twine to hang up your onions or garlic, and you can do the same when drying herbs too. To ensure that your process is successful, hang your crops in bunches from a rack or a clothes hanger and leave for a few weeks. To speed up the drying, use a dehydrator for up to ten hours until all crops are completely dried. For that earthy look whilst hanging, we recommend using natural jute garden twine.

3. Separate areas in your garden

Keeping areas in your garden separate is important when growing lots of different plant species, and you definitely don’t want your garden becoming overgrown. Using garden twine to cordon off sections of your garden will make it easier to pick and choose where to grow certain plants. Keep your garden organised and tidy.

4. Hang planters

Add a few personal touches to your garden, and unleash your creative side, with DIY hanging planters. In order to make these planters, you will need to select your desired garden twine and cut around eight pieces of equal length. These pieces should then be tied in one knot to sit at the bottom of your planter, and crossed over your plant pot in a chosen pattern. Make sure that the garden twine is relatively tight around your plant pot to ensure it doesn’t fall or slump to one side.

5. Train fruit tree branches

Training fruit trees allows gardeners to control how big they grow and where they produce fruit. Tying these branches to walls or fences with garden twine means you can ensure that they don’t take up too much space in your garden. Plus, when it comes to harvesting your fruit, your fruit trees will be a reasonable height, and you won’t need a stepladder.

Garden twine has so many amazing uses, and we would say it is a staple for gardening enthusiasts. If you’re interested in making your first garden twine purchase, why not check out our range today?

Posted on July 27, 2022August 16, 2022 by Rope Source — Leave a comment

Natural rope vs poly rope: which is best?

Before buying a natural or synthetic rope, there should be a few factors taken into consideration. Think about the job you want your rope to do: are you using them indoor or outdoor, what sort of stress might they be put under, and how long do you need them for. Having a clear idea of their use and properties will help you immensely when selecting the perfect rope.

What can you use natural and synthetic ropes for?

Ropes can be used for practically anything, from marine use to arts and crafts, they’re very versatile. So, what exactly can each type of rope be used for?

Natural rope

These rustic, rough and ready ropes are perfect for industry or decorative use. Before the creation of synthetic ropes, their natural counterparts were used for everything and anything. From climbing to clothing, and farming to cat-scratching posts – they have a variety of uses. Natural ropes have a better grip for tying knots than synthetic ones – which are prone to slipping.

Synthetic rope

Strong, lightweight and hard wearing, poly ropes have become a great alternative to other ropes. Polypropylene and polyethylene ropes are great for usage on lorries, for towing and for marine use. As they are water resistant, they’re great for aquatic purposes.

Material

The composition of a rope is very important as this will ultimately decide how well your rope performs in other areas.

What are natural ropes made of?

Made up of all natural fibre, these ropes can be formed from plant fibres, such as manila, jute, sisal, cotton and natural hemp. Ranging from 6mm to 28mm, natural ropes have been a consistent favourite long before synthetic ropes were created.

What are synthetic ropes made of?

Poly ropes are made up of synthetic polymers, such as polyethylene, polypropylene and polyester – along with many others. The benefit of these polymers is that they make the rope extremely strong.

Strength

Probably the most important factor to concern yourself with when it comes to ropes is strength. The stronger the rope, the higher the likelihood of it serving the purpose you want it to.

How strong are natural ropes?

In most cases, natural ropes are very strong, but due to their plant fibre composition, they are weaker than poly ropes. Saying this, natural ropes still have plenty of benefits that shouldn’t be ignored.

How strong are synthetic ropes?

With a higher tensile strength and elasticity, poly ropes are generally stronger than natural ropes. These ropes are lightweight, but don’t let that fool you – they are amazing at absorbing high impacts.

Durability

What can each rope withstand? Synthetic and natural ropes have varying durabilities when faced with water, fire and extreme temperatures. Which one fares the best?

How durable are natural ropes?

One of the main issues when opting for the more natural rope is that when they get wet, they shrink. This occurs as the plant fibres absorb water and increase in size, therefore decreasing the length. Apart from this, a natural rope is pretty great at withstanding high heats and freezing temperatures – but it will burn if exposed to fire. We recommend treating your ropes for the best outdoor use, this can be with decking oil or any other preservatives available at your local DIY store.

How durable are synthetic ropes?

Water resistant and unshrinkable, poly ropes are amazing for those rainy days. Although, they don’t react as well in freezing or extreme temperatures, as they can experience damage or even melt slightly. So, keep your synthetic ropes away from fires at all costs.

Lifespan

The lifespan of any rope depends on two things – how well you look after it and what type of rope it is. Not ensuring that your ropes are well maintained will impact on the lifespan.

How long will a natural rope last?

As natural ropes are made from plant fibres, it’s not uncommon for them to rot if left damp for extended periods. Over time, the molecules within the natural fibres become weaker as they are not held together chemically.

How long will a synthetic rope last?

Due to the polymer nature of synthetic ropes, they tend to last a lot longer than natural ropes. As they don’t suffer from damp or water damage, there’s no chance of the rope rotting. If you’re looking for a rope that’s easy to look after, and that will stand the test of time, a poly rope is probably your best bet.

Environmentally friendly?

Looking after the environment is more important than ever, so considering how sustainable your rope is may be a big factor.

Are natural ropes sustainable?

A bonus to using natural ropes is that they are completely biodegradable and environmentally friendly. As they are composed of plant fibres, these ropes are an amazing choice when it comes to protecting the environment.

Are synthetic ropes environmentally friendly?

Despite their best efforts, poly ropes are not completely eco-friendly. Synthetic polymer fibres and lots of chemicals are used to form this type of rope. As they won’t break down naturally, we suggest keeping your poly ropes in tip top condition and keeping them for as long as you can, and then recycling them properly.

Which rope is best?

When it comes to officially deciding the winner between a natural and a poly rope, we think we’ll leave that one up to you to decide. If you’re thinking about purchasing some ropes, contact us and we can help you decide which one is right for you.

Posted on July 12, 2022August 16, 2022 by Rope Source — Leave a comment

6 types of paracord survival knots

yellow paracord survival knot next to brown wood

What are paracord survival knots?

When you’re camping, climbing or stuck out in the wilderness, a good survival knot will come in handy. There are many types of survival knots – some contain loops that are ideal for hooking onto anchors, whilst others allow the length of paracords to be adjusted. Using a paracord ensures that your knot will be strong and secure – providing that you have done the knot correctly – but we can help with that.

Types of paracord survival knots

We have six survival knots for you to master with your paracord. There’s a variety of lengths and colours to choose from when it comes to paracords. From neon pink to woodland camo, choose whether to blend in or stand out – either way, they’ll be your best friends out in the wild.

Figure-eight knot

figure eight survival knot with a red paracord — https://unsplash.com/photos/hz8oKcPIyAU

One of the most popular and strongest knots for climbers and campers is the figure-eight knot. This incredibly strong knot won’t unravel under pressure, which makes it perfect for climbing. If multiple knots are tied along a paracord, this can also be used to climb up. A variation of this is the figure-eight follow through knot, which contains a loop at the end – this knot can be used to haul people up or as a hand or foothold.

Figure-eight on a bight

A close relative of the figure-eight knot – this knot differs slightly as it contains a loop at the end. This loop is known as a bight and it comes in handy when securing a paracord to a climbing harness or an anchor of some kind. It is important that these knots are really secure, but too tight and they can be difficult to untie.

Bowline knot

Easy to tie and untie, but are still able to hold an incredibly high amount of weight. Only have one hand free? No problem. This knot can be tied using just one hand. The bowline knot is great for tying a paracord around yourself or other things, but we don’t suggest using this knot for climbing. As the bowline knot can come undone when pulled sideways, it’s definitely not the safest knot to use in this instance.

Clove hitch

The clove hitch may not be as strong as the figure-eight knot, but it does offer one important feature. This knot allows you to adjust the length of your paracord without untying – this is due to its loose binding. In high winds, we suggest checking this knot often as it can unravel.

Sheet bend

Have you ever gone out climbing or camping and realised that your paracords are too short? This is where the sheet bend comes into play – it’s a great knot for tying two shorter paracords together. The sheet bend can still work even if the two paracords are made with different materials or if they vary in thicknesses, to be extra safe, a double knot will ensure complete security. In need of a net, a hammock or possibly a stretcher? The sheet bend can help with just about anything.

Taut line hitch

The taut line hitch is a useful knot to learn when going camping. It is popular for its versatility, but is great for setting up a tarpaulin. This knot can slide up and down the paracord and is easy to untie when not needed. However, if the rotation of the knot is reversed, it can become weaker so it shouldn’t be relied on when climbing.

Interested in purchasing a paracord and trying out these survival knots? Why not take a look at our extensive range of paracords? If you’re in need of some extra advice, get in touch with us today and we can help to pick the perfect paracord to suit your needs.

Posted on June 24, 2022November 10, 2022 by Rope Source — Leave a comment

The history of rope making

What is rope making?

Rope making is the process of twisting lots of fibres together to make one strong rope. A rope’s job is to remain wound together, even when contorted or knotted, otherwise it would not have enough tensile strength to pull heavy objects or keep its stability.

How to make ropes

Nowadays, the rope making process is largely industrialised, with ropes created by machines. But essentially, there are four parts to rope production:

Prepare the fibres by twisting.

Spin the fibres, or bunch them, into yarn.

These yarns are then twisted – in a process called forming – into strands.

Next up is laying – where multiple strands are twisted together, to form a complete rope.

What material is used to make ropes?

Most fibres can be used to make a rope, but depending on the type used to make the strands, and ultimately the rope, some will inevitably be stronger than others. The strongest type of natural rope, for example, is a manila rope, whereas for synthetic rope you should go for nylon or polypropylene. Synthetic ropes such as these are strong, lightweight and are great value for money.

The different rope making techniques

The material of a rope can differ, and so can the technique of braiding or twisting a rope. We have listed a few types of rope making techniques below:

Twisted rope: To form a twisted rope, fibres are spun into yarns and then twisted into strands. These separate strands are then twisted together to create a rope.

Braided rope: This type of rope is created by braiding yarn together to form a tube-like structure. The benefit of this is that they have better flexibility than a twisted rope.

Plaited rope: A plaited rope is relatively simple and is similar to a twisted rope, except the strands are plaited instead.

A brief history of rope making

The history of rope is actually a lot more intricate than you might think. So without further ado, let’s dive in.

When were ropes invented?

Rope making has been an essential part of history, and dates back to prehistoric times around 28,000 years ago. Originally, ropes were made from twisting plant fibres, or anything individuals could source locally, together – and it’s not so different today. Rope making spread to many civilizations, but first became popular with the Egyptians – then moving onto the Chinese dynasties and the rest of the world.

The ancient Egyptians were the first to create rope making tools, and ropes became essential for moving materials to use for building the pyramids and monuments. Some tombs actually show this process in their wall paintings – these are called reliefs. Other parts of the world realised the usefulness of ropes in industry and daily life, becoming a massive global industry.

How was traditional rope made?

Rope was traditionally made in a ropewalk – this referred to the rope factories. These buildings were long, low, and often completely outdoors. Later, ropewalks were either roofed or housed inside. Unlike most other industrial factories, ropewalks were placed outside of cities because of the high fire risk they posed. Due to the extremely long lengths of rope that needed to be made, these factories were often around a quarter of a mile long – sometimes even longer. In a ropewalk, long fibres would be laid down and twisted together to make one strong rope. The strength of the rope comes from these fibres being wound together multiple times over. Usually, ropewalks were operated by hand or hand-operated tools, but this later developed.

Chatham Dockyard in Kent has the only traditional working ropewalk, and rope has been made there for around 400 years. It also contains a ropery museum for people to check out the history of rope making in even more depth.

How rope making has evolved

The industrial revolution pushed for steam-powered machines, progressing into electric use. Some electricity powered ropewalks hung around until the mid 20th century. As a rope making method, the ropewalk was efficient but slow and things began to change.

The desire for stronger, thicker ropes began with the increase in sea trading. The use of ropes on ships was essential and the ropewalks couldn’t keep up with the demand. Natural materials – that were usually used for rope making – could no longer be used due to them shrinking when they got wet. Manila is the material of choice for rope usage on boats – it’s strong and doesn’t stretch.

This is where we see a move towards rope making as we know it today, and away from slower processes like ropewalks. These days, ropes are mass produced quickly and in large quantities to keep up with the ever growing rope industry.

Feeling inspired by the rich history of rope making? If you’re interested in buying some ropes, rather than making them yourself, then we can help. Or maybe you’re unsure what type of rope you need, in that case – contact us today to satisfy all of your rope needs.

Posted on June 17, 2022July 22, 2022 by Rope Source — Leave a comment

8 amazing ideas for jute twine crafts

If you’re a crafting whizz who’s looking to expand their DIY tool box, investing in jute craft twine is the way to go. These rustic twines are a fan-favourite simply because of their immense durability. They’re strong, they look great, and they’re plant-based, making them both biodegradable and sustainable – what more could you ask for?

Jute twines are made from variations of jute plants which produce fibres that can be spun into twines of various thicknesses. Jute plants are easy to grow and have become a popular alternative to wool and cotton.

Jute twine craft ideas

Scrapbooks

Remember making scrapbooks when you were young? Add some nostalgia to your life and put together a scrapbook with the help of jute twine – the perfect way to document a day out you want to remember. Connecting photos together is an essential part of scrapbooking, so with your jute twine in hand, cut various lengths and pin or stick down to your scrapbook pages. Place your photos In between the pieces of jute twine so they appear connected.

Another great use for jute twine is using it to tie a scrapbook shut. Cut one long piece of jute twine into two, and on both the front and back covers, near the page edge, glue one end of the twine to the cover. Allow this to dry, and then if you want an additional personal touch, add a piece of coloured tape over the twine end before you tie your book shut.

Crochet

Why not hop onto the crafting trend that’s recently taken the world by storm? Get out your crochet hooks and pick some coloured jute twine to craft your very own clothing, accessories and decorative pieces. Although this twine is stiffer than your usual wool or yarn, it works exactly the same, and can be great for making ornaments that require a little bit more structure.

One of our favourite things to crochet with jute twine is coasters. They look amazing on a coffee table and they hold their shape well. If you’re looking for a larger craft project, crocheting a jute twine rug is another amazing idea – just ensure that you’ve got enough twine for this! Whether you’re a crochet fanatic or a complete beginner, why not open up a few YouTube tutorials and give it a try?

Hanging decorations

Do you have some decorations collecting dust that you’ve been meaning to put up, but you have nothing to hang them with? This is where jute twine comes in. You could use a few different colours of jute intertwined to make a beautiful twine rope that’s perfect for exactly this.

If you’re looking to follow this method, we suggest taking three different coloured jute twines, cutting each to the same length and then begin wrapping them around each other. Once you’ve done this, make a knot at each end to secure your jute twine creation and begin threading or hooking your decorations on. Hanging this on your wall will add a pop of colour to your home, whilst utilising unused decorations.

Plant pot covers

Bring some of that rustic charm into your home with self-made jute plant covers. Grab your chosen jute twine, a simple plant pot, PVA glue, and you’re good to go. Apply glue to the section of the plant pot that you want your jute twine to cover, and then carefully wrap your twine around the glued section of the plant pot. Make a striped effect by using a variety of jute colours – the perfect way to brighten up your plant pots.

Making Christmas ornaments

One of our favourite things to craft around Christmas time is jute twine baubles. They’re easy to make and look great hanging from tree branches. If you’re thinking of making a few jute twine baubles in time for Christmas, we have the perfect method for you.

To get started, pick up a few balloons, PVA glue and a variety of coloured jute twine. In a bowl, mix some water and glue, and place jute twine strands in a bowl until fully coated. Blow up a few balloons – to whatever size you’d like your baubles to be – and begin wrapping your glue-coated jute twine around the balloons. There’s no right or wrong way to wrap your twine, but make sure that it’s tight. Leave your jute twine creations out to dry overnight, and when dry, pop the balloon inside.

Now you have some amazing, hand-made baubles for your tree!

Weddings

Planning a wedding but it’s missing that personal touch? Get crafty and make some place cards, or send out handmade invitations. Add some spark with coloured jute twine, using it to tie your invitations shut, or create a cute, rustic border around your guest’s name cards. You might even want to incorporate jute twine into your flower arrangements and bouquets as an extra touch.

Macrame decorations

Are you a lover of macrame? Or do you fancy uptaking a new crafting hobby? If this is the case, you can rely on jute twine to satisfy all of your macrame crafting needs.

Macrame is a textile technique produced by knotting twine, string, or any chosen material to create a pattern. Jute twine, along with macrame twine, works amazingly in macrame decorations to brighten up your living room or bedrooms. There are a variety of macrame-based decorations, from hanging plant pots, to dream catchers – macrame designs have endless possibilities.

Bracelets

Everyone loves a hand-made bracelet, so why not use jute twine to make yours, or surprise friends and family with a personalised gift. Grab your choice of coloured twine, pick out some pretty beads and get to work. How you make your bracelet is up to you, but if you’re looking for design inspiration, head on over to our previous blog post on how to make a friendship bracelet to support all of your crafting needs.

Present decorations

Jute twine is perfect for eco-friendly gift wrapping – especially when paired with biodegradable paper – and a go-to choice for lovers of the rustic aesthetic. Use this crafting saviour by wrapping it around presents to keep the paper secure, or use it to secure tags onto gifts and gift bags. So, next time you’re wrapping up a present for a loved one or a friend, bring a bit of jute twine to the table. You won’t regret it.

Can’t decide which jute twine to go for? Why not experiment with colours and opt for an assorted pack? Or, browse through some of our other ropes and twines to find the best crafting equipment for your next project. Let us help with your decision by getting in contact with our team of professionals today.

Posted on May 24, 2022July 22, 2022 by Rope Source — Leave a comment

Decking ideas for small gardens that are perfect for summer

As spring transitions into summer, and homeowners brace themselves for the return of garden parties and barbeques, it’s the perfect time to show off your outdoor space. However, for gardens that are on the smaller side, redesigning your set-up without minimising available room can often seem like an impossible task. That’s where we step in.

This collection of decking ideas – ideal for warmer seasons – should (hopefully) fill your mind with plenty of inspiration, so that you can start effortlessly transforming your small outdoor space.

Circular decking

Move away from traditional decking design and go circular, embracing geometric designs rather than hard edges. Used as a way to set your outdoor space apart from your neighbours, complete your modern set-up with angular furniture and a curved plant border to make your decking area a feature piece.

Complementary decking colour

Grey decking that oozes minimalist style

The colour you choose for your decking can completely transform your outdoor space, and with an ever-expanding list of tones and shades to take your pick from, it’s never been easier to complement your home’s aesthetic. Whether you opt for a minimalist grey, earthy browns, or even a striking dark blue, make sure to pick some garden furniture that blends beautifully with your chosen decking colour to avoid making your space look crowded.

Design a walk-way

Create a pathway to enhance garden space

Perfect for adding an element of playfulness to your garden, a path will trick the eye and create the illusion of increased space. Customise the surrounding area as you wish, perhaps framing your walkway with stones, tall plants and glowing floor lights to illuminate your garden.

Take your visitors on a sightseeing journey around your garden with a pathway that leads up to a featured seating area for kicking back and relaxing, or to a snap-worthy viewing point that’s worth showing off.

Multilevel decking

Compromised on space? The answer is multilevel decking. By establishing distinct zones for varying purposes – whether that’s a cooking area complete with a fire pit, or a seating area for some outdoor, summer relaxation – this is a great alternative for enhancing visual interest. Use steps or even a small bridge, made with wooden planks and decking ropes, to easily make your way between areas.

Enclosing your space

If you’re looking for extra privacy, there are plenty of creative methods to enclose your decking area. Decking ropes are brilliant for just this, which vary in material and thickness, so you can customise your garden space in a way that seamlessly blends in with your desired aesthetic.

From nautical-esque manilla decking ropes that certainly wouldn’t look out of place in a rural setting, to sisal decking ropes that are great for complementing timberwork, create a rope railing that best suits your preferences.

Choosing decking furniture

**Multifunctional outdoor furniture: storage bench**

Naturally, furniture preferences will vary between individuals, but for those with a smaller garden, we advise choosing compact furniture. These will be much easier to store away when summer skies turn to gloomy clouds, and they’ll make your decking area look much less cluttered.

Multifunctional outdoor furniture is another efficient way to maximise available space – who wouldn’t fall in love with a bench that can convert into a coffee table, or seats that open up to become storage units? Choose pieces that will make your life easier.

Lighting

Now that you’ve filled your decking area with plenty of outdoor furniture, it’s time to start adding the finishing touches. Lighting can completely change the mood, so why not show off your newly designed garden space with twinkling string lights? Ideal for hosting summer parties.

Keen to enhance your decking area? Get started today and explore our vast stock range of ropes and twines – we’ll have just what you need to start your next DIY project. Contact us today to find out more.

Posted on May 4, 2022July 22, 2022 by Rope Source — Leave a comment

How to create space decor for your home

Is reality getting you down? Fancy hopping in a spaceship and zooming off to another galaxy? For those who love a good crafting project, you’re sure to go all starry-eyed over these other-wordly space decor ideas for your home – perfect for adding a sense of playfulness to your space.

Star light garland

For walls that are looking a little drab, why not decorate with a twinkling star light garland? Either cascade from your bedroom ceiling to pretend you’re gazing up at the night sky, or hang in your living room to instantly transform an area from cold to cosy. If you’ve got some Christmas lights that are collecting dust in your attic, why not put them to good use and incorporate them into your star light garland design?

To start, get some crafting foam and cut out star shapes, adding a hole to the middle for the lights to be pushed through. After doing this, screw the bulb back into the cord.

Following a similar method – which is ideal for those who also love a bit of nautical home decor – use manilla rope to create a thicker garland, twisting some fairy lights around it to enhance the outer space aesthetic. Finally, attach your stars to the thicker rope with some cotton string, knotting each in place as you go along.

Planet mobile

Create your own mini solar system with this space mobile, using just a few simple tools. To begin, use a compass to sketch out your planets and sun onto a piece of white card. Once you’ve cut these out, you can paint them in a variety of different colours, using swirling and splodging techniques to add further depth.

To create a 3D effect – and to make your crafting project look all the more lifelike – you could make a slit from one edge of your planet to the centre, repeating the process with another circle template, slotting them together.

Next, make a small hole at the top of each planet, threading a piece of cotton string through, securing everything in place with a tight knot. The top of these pieces of string can then be attached onto a large circular cut out, made with a black piece of card – simply use a pin to make the small holes to indicate where you want your planets to hang.

Outer space sun catchers

There’s no need for a telescope with DIY cosmos sun catchers – bring the cosmos to your living room as the sun seeps through the magical kaleidoscope of colours.

For this space-themed project, you can upcycle some clear plastic plates or containers that are no longer in use, which will be your base. Purchase some stained glass paints in colours of your choice, some white acrylic paint, and some paint brushes so you can start bringing life to these captivating pieces. Of course, precision isn’t necessarily needed during the initial steps, as you’ll want the paints to collide with one another to give the impression of a swirling cosmos.

Once you’ve left your paint to dry overnight, you can sprinkle some acrylic paint diluted in water over the top to make your stars, using some glitter for an added touch of sparkle. Finally, cut out circles of varying diameters, and now you’re ready to stick these beauties to your window.

Constellation canvas

Unleash your inner artist and part-time astronomist with a lighted constellation canvas. Head over to your local craft store and locate a regular, white canvas (in a size of your choice) and a tub of black paint for the night sky you’re about to create.

Paint the entirety of your canvas black, and once this has dried, you can use a white marker pen to start sketching out your chosen constellation – armed with a reference image. This could be picked at random, or perhaps you’d like to choose one that belongs to your star sign?

Once you’ve finished sketching the constellation, punch some holes in the back of your canvas in areas where you’d like your lights to shine through. Now switch on those lights, find the perfect place to hang your fantastic new piece, and admire your outer space creation.

Galaxy drink coasters

In search of some quirky table accessories that are out of this world? Look no further than these creative DIY galaxy drink coasters.

Using an unfinished wooden coaster as your base, paint this black with some multi-surface paint. Once left to dry, use a sponge coated in shimmery paint to dab random splodges of colour over the top. Give your sponge a clean, and throw another colour into the mix – it’s okay if they start to overlap. For the galaxy look, add more black paint over the top, dabbing gently to create a cloudy, dream-like pattern.

Next, use glitter paint to add some stars, and – once left to dry – pour a thin layer of Mod Podge on top, spreading it right up to the edge of your coaster with a paintbrush. Leave for up to 24 hours, and now you’ve got yet another brand new piece of space inspired decor.

Here at Rope Source, we have everything you need for your next crafting project – whether you’re transforming your home decor or otherwise. Get in touch with our team today to discover quality ropes and twines.

Featured image credit: Mon Makes Things