Author: Rope Source

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7 helpful uses for sandbags at home

pile of hessian sandbags

We’re all familiar with the image of sandbags piled up in the midst of a Hollywood blockbuster shoot-out. But what are the practical, everyday uses for sandbags? There are many uses for sandbags that can benefit yourself and your home. Read on to uncover the top seven uses for sandbags – some of which you may have never known before. 

1. Protect from floods

Undoubtedly the most common use of sandbags around the house. Why? A sandbag wall is the perfect defence mechanism against floods. So if your area is prone to flooding, be sure to keep some sandbags in the house in case of an emergency. Building a sandbag wall is a cheap, easy, and effective way of minimising the risk of serious damage to your property. Not sure where to begin? Our guide on how to prevent flood damage with sandbags tells you exactly how to fill, stack, and waterproof a sandbag wall. 

2. Yoga

Did you know that you can use sandbags for exercises such as yoga? Yoga sandbags are simply sandbags that are used during your usual yoga session. They can be utilised in different ways to make things both easier and more challenging, depending on your goals for that session. Learn how to make yoga sandbags, using a variety of different materials for a cheap and easy yoga accessory. 

3. Weights

Sometimes, outdoor items and furniture may need some extra help to stay in place. Sandbags can be used to weigh down any outdoor items to prevent them from being knocked over or blown away in the wind. Simply fill and tie a sandbag up, then place it at the base of whatever needs to stay grounded. Try using sandbags for tents, garden furniture, or even balloons if you’re throwing a party. They can also be used to weigh down awnings by tying them together with rope. 

4. Improve traction with rear-wheel-drive

When driving a rear-wheel drive vehicle on slippery roads, it helps to have weight towards the back of your vehicle. So, if you don’t frequently have passengers or equipment in the back of your vehicle, then sandbags can help with traction in slippery conditions. Place sandbags somewhere secure towards the back of your vehicle, over the rear axle. This will usually be in the boot of your car. Just bear in mind that sandbags should always be positioned as close to the rear wheels as possible – as long as it’s safe, of course. 

5. Prevent erosion

Erosion is an issue caused by exposure to wind and water, which can quickly escalate to cause more serious structural damage. Luckily, sandbags prevent erosion by providing extra support to walls or roadways. Since sandbags are not a permanent solution, this means they can be easily moved and rearranged. Hessian sandbags are perfect for supporting natural structures, as the natural fibres will break down and merge with the surrounding landscape over time. 

6. Physical training

Using sandbags for exercise doesn’t stop at yoga; there are a whole range of ways to utilise sandbags for physical activity. The most obvious way to use sandbags would be to practise strength training. Hold the sandbags like you would any heavy item for a cheap alternative to weights and dumbbells. You can pair sandbags with basic exercise like squats and lunges for a more intense workout too. The best thing about using a sandbag for exercise is that the weight is so easy to adjust. All it takes is a couple of minutes to empty or fill your sandbag to achieve your desired weight. So if you’re worried about buying tonnes of weights, you won’t have to anymore. A sandbag is really all you need for home strength workouts. 

7. Shooting gun rest

If you enjoy shooting clay pigeons as a pastime, then you’ll likely know that a gun rest is incredibly helpful for improving stability. However, there’s no need to splurge on an elaborate, expensive gun rest – a few sandbags piled up does just the trick. Many gun rests are made from similar materials to a sandbag too, so why not save yourself the cash? Plus, by creating a sandbag gun rest yourself, you can customise the exact height and shape that is most comfortable for you.


Are you ready to put sandbags to use around your home? Use them alongside our high quality ropes and cords for incredibly strong DIY materials – suitable for use around the home and garden. Contact Rope Source to learn more about what we have to offer.

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How to do rope magic for beginners

outspread hand underneath a lit sparkler

Are you looking to take up a new, exciting hobby? Or, maybe you want to expand your range of impressive magic tricks. Well, rope magic is an incredible type of illusion that can wow spectators anytime and anywhere. It involves manipulating a piece of rope and fooling spectators with clever sleight of hand. So, why not learn some exhilarating rope magic for your next party trick? Keep reading for advice about how to get started with rope magic.

What kind of rope is best for rope magic tricks?

When it comes to rope magic, not just any kind of rope will do. This is especially true for beginners, as a rope that’s too tough will result in messy, clumsy attempts at rope magic. Luckily, this is why magician’s rope exists – it’s incredibly soft and flexible, making it ideal for rope magicians to use during their tricks. The reason why magician’s rope is so easy to manipulate is due to its hollow core and soft cotton material, which combined make up a finely woven piece of rope that’s perfect for a variety of tricks.

How to do rope magic

Rope magic, as with any new hobby, takes lots of time and practice to perfect. It’s unlikely that you’ll magically – pardon the pun – be able to perform all sorts of rope magic tricks within an hour. Take the time to become confident with a couple of beginner-level rope magic tricks, rather than trying to tackle all sorts of tricks at once. You’ll also need lots of practice working on sleight of hand, misdirection, and the speed at which you move your hands. There are countless books and video tutorials out there to learn from, but in the meantime, we will walk you through a beginner rope magic trick.

The cut and restore rope trick

If you have your magician’s rope at the ready and are raring to try a simple rope magic trick, here is a fun trick for you to try. Don’t be put off if you don’t get it right the first time – practice makes perfect!

The cut and restore rope magic trick is famously associated with magicians Penn and Teller, and consists of cutting a rope in two and then restoring it back to its original state. You’ll need to work on misdirection and sleight of hand to pull off this magic trick. Read the steps below:

  1. Start with about four to six feet of magician’s rope.
  2. With the back of your left hand facing your audience, holding both ends of the rope between your thumb and index finger. The looped middle of the rope should be hanging down.
  3. Grab ahold of the centre of the rope loop with your right hand, and bring it up to where your left hand is holding the rope ends. With a small loop appearing above your hand, grab the looped piece of rope with your left hand, so that all of the rope is now held in your left hand.
  4. Reach for a pair of scissors with your right hand. While you do, “accidentally” drop the looped part of the rope with your left hand, so that it hangs down.
  5. This is where the magic happens. With your right hand facing palm up, take the centre of the rope and raise it up to your left hand. Your right-hand thumb should move through the loop of the rope, so that it’s draped over your right hand.
  6. Once your right hand reaches your left, grab the rightmost end of the rope using your right thumb and index finger. You should be holding the end of the rope a couple of inches below your left thumb. At the same time, tilt your right hand downwards so that the centre of the rope slides off the back of the hand.
  7. Continue moving your right hand up above your left. It will now be holding a new loop of rope that you just created, but to the audience, this will look like it’s the original centre loop of the rope. Make sure that this loop is positioned to the right of the two rope ends, and that your left thumb is holding this new loop in place out of sight of the audience.
  8. With your right hand, take your scissors and cut the new, short loop that’s held above your left hand. To the audience, it will seem as if you have just cut the rope in half. As your right hand moves to place the scissors down, grab the leftmost and rightmost ends of rope so that they hang down below your hand. It will now look as though you are holding two ropes of equal length, when in reality you have a long rope that’s looped around a short rope.
  9. Take the two ends of the short rope (the one that’s above your left hand) and tie them together with two overhand knots. 
  10. With your left hand, hold the rope between the knot and one of the ends so that the whole rope and the knot are exposed. 
  11. Take a hold of the knot with your right hand and theatrically slide it a small way down the length of the rope. Move the knot as many times as you wish, and finally slide off the knot completely. It will seem as though you have restored the original rope, and your rope magic trick is complete!

Ready to get started on a rope magic trick? After you’ve tried our step-by-step instructions, feel free to expand your repertoire and become a rope magician of many tricks! The more advanced you become at rope magic, the more confident you will be using any type of rope. So, take a look at all the different ropes, twines, and cords that we offer, and get creative with your magic routine. Contact us to learn more.

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How to make yoga sandbags

silhouette of a person doing yoga in front of a sunset

Many people around the world love to take part in yoga, for both their mental and physical wellbeing. Yoga is a fantastic form of exercise, capable of strengthening muscle, improving flexibility, and even contributing to weight loss. However, this activity is also very relaxing and used by many as a form of meditation. No matter your reasons for trying yoga, there are many different poses and styles, some of which include additional equipment. For example, yoga sandbags are a cheap, easy to use accessory to incorporate into your yoga routine. Keep reading to learn how to make yoga sandbags.

How to make yoga sandbags

It is fairly straightforward to make yoga sandbags, however you should take care not to overfill the sandbags or make them too heavy. Many yoga poses involving sandbags may require you to lift or place the sandbags on your body, so take caution with how heavy you make the sandbags. It’s better to start lighter, and add more filling as you become more confident using yoga sandbags.

Filling your yoga sandbags

One of the quickest, cheapest, and easiest ways to make yoga sandbags is simply to fill a hessian sandbag with a material of your choice. Of course, the most obvious choice of filling would be sand, however this isn’t essential for yoga sandbags if you don’t have any to hand. There are in fact a number of different materials available to fill your yoga sandbags, some of which you may not have thought of before. An easy substitution is to use rice and/or beans to fill your sandbag – these are items that most people may have stored away in their cupboards. This definitely doesn’t mean tinned baked beans; stick to dry beans such as kidney or pinto beans for filling your yoga sandbags. A slightly more unconventional way to fill yoga sandbags is to use cat litter – unused, obviously. Cat litter is cheap to buy in bulk and can be easily used to fill a sandbag. It often smells pretty nice, too.

It’s important to point out that while pretty much any filling will do for yoga sandbags, if you intend to prevent flood damage with sandbags, then sand should always be used. This is because yoga sandbags only act as a weighty prop to use during yoga, whereas sandbags for flooding need to be incredibly resistant and absorbent. So, don’t attempt to use your yoga sandbags for other purposes unless they are filled correctly with sand.

Decorate your yoga sandbags

If you want your yoga sandbags to act as an attractive accessory for your yoga room, then you may want to incorporate beautiful colours or patterns. If you already have sandbags that you want to add a little flair to, then consider using different decorative braids to embellish your yoga sandbags. Baker’s twine or decorative ribbon twine can also be used to add a charming sense of decoration to your yoga sandbags. Use a hot glue gun to secure your decorative ropes to the borders of your yoga sandbags, or use them to create unique patterns. 

Alternatively, you could create a case for your sandbags from coloured hessian rolls. These rolls are made of the same material as the sandbags, so would also add an extra layer of protection to prevent any bursts or spills from occurring. These cases can also be decorated in the ways we mentioned above, or you could use the coloured rolls to add embellishments to the yoga sandbags. Get as creative as you’d like! 

For those of you who enjoy more complex crafts, why not create a macrame sandbag cover? Macrame cord comes in a variety of colours and is also durable, meaning your yoga sandbags will stay looking amazing after many uses. Macrame can be a relaxing and therapeutic hobby, so it pairs perfectly with regular yoga, too.

How to use yoga sandbags

Now that you have a practical new set of yoga sandbags, it’s time to put them to use. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner to yoga or using yoga sandbags, as we’ll highlight a few different ways to use yoga sandbags now. Remember – if a part of your body feels like it’s being pulled too much, remove the sandbag.

  • In Child’s Pose, place a sandbag on your sacrum and breathe deeply.
  • Place a sandbag on each shoulder to enhance heart opener poses.
  • Try putting sandbags on your thighs to improve the external rotation of your legs.
  • Place a sandbag on your hands to keep your fingers flat in certain poses.

Hessian is a strong, durable material that’s perfect for use in so many different crafts and home projects. Take a look at all of our stunning yet practical products, or contact a member of our team to discuss your needs.

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How to make a rope picture frame

Are you looking for a unique, creative way to display your artwork or photographs? Rope picture frames are perfect for those who want to get crafty with their home decor. Ropes, twines and cords can be used in a multitude of ways around the home, including to decorate picture frames. All you need is an existing picture frame, and the world’s your oyster! Read on to discover the different ways that you can decorate a picture frame with rope. 

How to make a rope picture frame

A rope picture frame couldn’t be easier to craft. All you’ll need is your rope of choice, a picture frame, a hot glue gun, and a knife to cut the rope. We recommend a hot knife rope cutter sealer, as this will prevent frayed ends and will make your picture frame look much neater. This craft can work with any choice of rope or twine, so there are countless different styles of picture frame that you can create. Here’s a step-by-step on how to create your rope picture frame:

  1. Glue the end of the rope to the outside edge of your picture frame to create a border around it. This is optional – you can just start on the front face of your frame if preferred. Try to keep the rope as straight as possible, bending tightly around corners. Once you have glued the rope all round the edges of the frame, cut the rope with your knife cutter and glue the final part down. 
  2. Now, it’s time for the front of the frame. If you created a rope border around the edge of the picture frame, start your front row of rope in the same corner that you did for the border. Glue the end of the rope down and begin creating a row, ensuring there are no gaps between the rope border and your new row.
  3. Continue glueing the rope to the frame, creating a row around the circumference of your picture frame. Once one row has been completed, you can move inwards for the second row, in a sort of spiral pattern. Be sure to keep the rows tight together without any gaps, and keep glueing the rope until you reach the centre of the frame. 
  4. Once you have covered all of the space on your frame, cut off the excess rope and make sure that it is securely glued down. You should now have a beautiful rope picture frame.

Rope picture frame inspiration

Love the idea of a rope picture frame, but not sure how to match it to your aesthetic? Worry not, as no two rope frames are the same. Whether you want a rustic look or a high-end, sophisticated frame, the type of rope you use will aid you in your goals. Keep reading for some inspiration for the type of rope frame you could create.

Gold rope picture frame

If you want to add some extra glitz and glamour to your home, then a gold rope picture frame is perfect. By using the method described above, you can use gold cord to turn your picture frame from drab to dazzling. If you want a more subtle golden look, then a gold sparkle bakers twine is perfect for creating a dainty picture frame.

Don’t just limit yourself to gold – try a stunning sparkle bakers twine in any colour you like for gorgeous glittering frames around your pictures. 

Cowboy rope picture frame

If you love the Western aesthetic, then creating a cowboy rope picture frame is the perfect way to highlight your photos and artwork. Cowboys often use natural hemp rope or nylon rope to create their lassos. So, using these kinds of rope to decorate your picture frames is a great way to pay homage to your favourite Western movies.

Nautical rope picture frame

Why not create a nautical theme within your home with a rope picture frame? Used for docking boats or general boating chores, a dock line or mooring rope will impress the boating fanatics in your life. Plus, these types of rope are incredibly durable and long-lasting, making a great investment in your home décor that can be used time and time again.


Interested in some more fun and fresh rope crafts? Take a look at some of the best uses for decorative rope, or check out some jute twine crafts. To enquire about our variety of ropes, twines, and cords, get in touch.

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Gift wrapping ideas that will bring smiles to faces

black gift wrapped presents with thin rope and twine wrapped around them on top of a table

When you’ve put a lot of thought into buying the perfect gift, sometimes you want to go a step further with your wrapping, too. Gift wrapping ideas can be hard to come by, especially if you have lots of different gifts to wrap. Read on for ten beautiful gift wrapping ideas that will make your recipient feel special.

1) Tea towel wrapping

Everyone will appreciate an extra tea towel in their home, and they can make a practical yet attractive gift. Choose a tea towel with a lovely pattern or colour palette, and use this to wrap your gift. This works especially well if your presents are kitchen themed, but it can be used for anything. Simply secure it with some gorgeous twine, and you have a quick and easy gift wrapping solution without the need for any tape. Your recipient is bound to love the extra gift, and this gift wrapping technique is also eco-friendly. You can find some more eco-friendly gift wrapping ideas in our blog post.

2) 3D gift wrapping

Who says that gift wrapping needs to be 2-dimensional? With this creative gift wrapping idea, you can create stunning 3D gift wrap that’ll bring a smile to anyone’s face. Take a look at the above example – you can try adding a toy car to your gift for a present that we doubt they’ll have ever seen before! This hack can be done in so many ways, too. You could use any small toy or figurine that you wish, or try fastening a small gift to the outside of your main present to kill two birds with one stone.

3) Metallic detailing

Sometimes, less is more. If you want an understated gift wrapping idea that still looks like you’ve put effort in, then this could be the perfect gift wrap design. Simply take some plain wrapping paper (brown looks particularly good) and draw on your own accents using a metallic pen. This simple hack really elevates your gift wrap and is very simple to do. Plus, you can pair it with some metallic bakers twine for an added flourish.

4) Watercolour paper

If you’re a fan of DIY crafts, then this gift wrapping tip could be ideal for you. Let your creative juices flow by using watercolour paints to create your own stunning gift wrap. This adds a personal touch to your gift wrapping, since it’s all been made by you. Plus, you can choose any colour scheme or patterns that you like! Just be sure to let your paper dry properly before you wrap your gifts.

5) Use photographs

Looking for a personal way to make your gift wrapping really shine? Simply print out a photograph of your choice and fasten it to your gift. You could use string or twine to hold it in place, so that you don’t risk damaging it by using tape, and your recipient can keep the photo as an added extra. Polaroid style photographs look especially good when using this technique.

6) Newspaper wrapping

Wrapping gifts in newspaper is one of the oldest tricks in the book when you find yourself without any wrapping paper. But, this hack can actually look amazing when executed right. A page that’s filled with mostly black and white text can look incredible when paired with some coloured twine or ribbon for a pop of colour. Or, keep with neutral tones and tie off with some natural macrame twine to add to the classic feel of your gift wrap.

7) Use map prints

Perfect for the travel fanatics in your life, why not try wrapping gifts in a map? You can print your own online or use a map that you just have lying around. A vintage map with some flax twine can create a classic, antique feel to your gift wrapping, while a newer map can be a fun, bright way of wrapping your gifts. You could even choose a map of a location that holds special memories between you and the recipient – it won’t go unnoticed.

8) Display your jewellery

If you’re treating that special someone to some gorgeous new jewellery, why not show it off as much as possible? This gift wrapping tip includes using jewellery, such as a bracelet or ring, to tie your gift wrapping together. Like seen in the example above, you can use a gorgeous piece of jewellery as an accent on your gift, holding it in place with some decorative ribbon twine. You’re bound to impress with your luxurious gift wrapping, and the recipient will be thrilled when they learn that they get to keep it in the end. 

9) Wax seal stamp

If you’re looking for a signature way to wrap all of your gifts, then this gift wrapping idea is ideal. Simple use a wax seal stamp to fasten together your wrapping paper or twine for a vintage yet personal look. You can get custom wax stamps of pretty much any design you like, and use it again and again to put your stamp on the gifts you wrap. These wax seals often look better with plain wrapping paper or a subtle pattern so that they can be the star of the show.

10) Snowflake accent

Most people have fond childhood memories of creating adorable paper snowflakes. They’re incredibly simple to make, and add a gorgeous accent to any gift. All you have to do is cut out your snowflake and secure it to your present with some natural cotton string or any twine you like. This is a cheap and easy way to embellish your gift wrapping – why not give it a go? If you’d like more wrapping ideas for Christmas, then give our other article a read or take a look at our range of Christmas twines.


Ropes, twines and cords can be used in so many different ways around the home and in your projects. If you’d like to find out more about what we have on offer, get in touch.

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How to prevent flood damage with sandbags

flooded street with sandbags in front of door to prevent flood damage to property

Rain is inconvenient for lots of reasons, but flooding has the potential to severely damage your property. The risk of flooding is one you shouldn’t ignore, but luckily there are some simple ways to limit the damage. 

You can use sandbags for flooding protection, and this is an affordable way of preventing water damage. Because sandbags are usually made from hessian fabric, they are easy to stack on top of each other. 

Read on to learn how to make sandbags that will prevent flood damage to your property. 

How to fill your sandbags

How many sandbags will you need?

Depending on how large your sandbag wall needs to be, you need to work out how many sandbags you actually need. It’s usually recommended to have around 60 sandbags. This will create a sturdy wall that’s one foot high and ten feet long. You should also calculate how much sand is needed to fill all of the bags – an average sandbag will take around 35-40 lbs of sand to adequately fill. Do all these calculations before starting work on your sandbag wall to prevent any mishaps or delays in building your wall. It’s better to overestimate than to underestimate, so plan for your wall to be slightly higher than you initially want it to be. 

How much you should fill your sandbags

Sandbags should only be filled about two-thirds of the way. A sandbag that’s too full will be difficult to work with and carry. One that’s not full enough will be difficult to stack, and it’ll take more bags to create a nice, sturdy wall. Keep your sandbags between halfway to two-thirds full with sand for the best results.

Sealing your sandbags

Don’t tie your sandbags – this makes them difficult to stack and doesn’t allow the sand to move around as much. Instead, close the bag by folding the top of the sack over and placing it down. Make sure the bag is nice and level so that your wall doesn’t become lopsided and uneven.

How to build the sandbag wall

Positioning the sandbag wall

Before you begin building your sandbag wall, remove any debris or other clutter out of the way. You’ll need your surface to be as flat and even as possible. This will make the wall building process much easier and ensure that it stays standing. 

Make sure to leave a gap between the sandbag wall and your property. If the pressure of the water forces the sandbags against the wall, this could cause more damage. Instead, leave around 8 feet between the sandbags and your building to prevent any structural damage. Because the sandbag wall shouldn’t be leaning on anything else, it’s especially important to build a strong foundation for your wall.

Constructing the sandbag wall

Now that you have cleared the best area for your sandbag wall, it’s time to start building it. This is a strenuous task, and it’s recommended that you have a couple of other people to help you. To start, you should aim for a wall that’s 3x wider than it is tall. This means your bottom layer will contain the most sandbags, creating a solid foundation. Lay out a row of sandbags side by side, and continue to add more rows behind it until you’ve created a base that’s roughly three feet wide. 

Next, begin on the second layer of sandbags. These should be offset so that they’re in the middle of the previous row of sandbags. Place each sandbag directly in the middle of the sandbags below it, so that each layer you add begins to create a pyramid shape. Continue this process until your sandbag wall is at your desired height.

Waterproofing

Once your sandbag wall has been constructed, you’ll need to waterproof it with some plastic sheeting. This should be placed only on the side of the wall that the water will be coming from. Place sandbags at the top and bottom of the sheet to keep it in place, making sure the sheet isn’t stretched too tight. If the sheet is stretched tight, the force of the water could rip it, allowing water to permeate through your sandbag wall.


Your sandbag wall should now be complete, and your property will have an extra layer of protection from flooding. For a wide range of DIY materials from washing line rope to macrame cord, contact us for great deals.

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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.

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5 uses for hessian fabric

hessian fabric bag

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

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

hessian sandbag

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

hessian frost sheet

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.

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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.

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How to use garden twine

drying herbs from a clothes hanger

 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 green poly 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

climbing plants in a grid pattern

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

rows of crops in a 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

garden twine planter

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

people carrying a bucket of apples

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?