Quick Answer
Ideal bark textures for cordage making are flexible, fibrous, and have a moderate level of elasticity. Look for bark with a high concentration of long fibers, typically found in tree species with broad leaves or those that shed their bark in strips. Check for signs of decay or damage.
Bark Fiber Characteristics
When searching for suitable bark for cordage making, examine the texture and structure. A good cordage bark should have a high proportion of long, thin fibers that can be easily teased apart. These fibers are typically found in barks that have a high concentration of cellulose and lignin. Trees with broad leaves, like willows or cottonwoods, often produce barks with long fibers suitable for cordage. In contrast, barks from coniferous trees, like pines or firs, tend to have shorter fibers and are less suitable for cordage making.
Bark Preparation Techniques
To prepare bark for cordage making, start by scraping off any loose or damaged outer layers. Use a sharp blade or a tool like a drawknife to strip the bark from the tree trunk or branches. Once removed, wash the bark in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, soak the bark in water for several hours to rehydrate the fibers and make them easier to work with. Use your fingers or a blunt tool to tease apart the fibers, and then pull them apart into individual strands.
Identifying Suitable Tree Species
Some tree species are more suitable for cordage making than others due to their bark characteristics. For example, the paperbark maple (Acer griseum) produces a bark with long, thin fibers that are ideal for cordage. Other suitable species include the river birch (Betula nana), the yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), and the slippery elm (Ulmus rubra). When foraging for bark, look for trees with broad leaves, a high concentration of cellulose and lignin, and a bark that peels easily.
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