Quick Answer
Combining different animal sinews in one project is a viable option, but it's essential to consider the properties and strengths of each type. Mixing sinews from various animals can create a durable and versatile cordage, but it also requires careful selection and preparation to achieve the desired outcome.
Choosing the Right Sinews
When combining different animal sinews, it’s crucial to select sinews from animals with similar tensile strengths and textures. For example, combining sinew from a deer (with a tensile strength of around 200-300 lbf/in²) with sinew from a rabbit (with a tensile strength of around 100-200 lbf/in²) may not be the most effective combination. However, pairing sinew from a deer with sinew from a moose (with a tensile strength of around 300-400 lbf/in²) could create a strong and durable cordage.
Preparation and Treatment
Before combining sinews, they should be cleaned, dried, and processed to remove any impurities or excess moisture. This can involve soaking the sinews in water, then stretching and drying them to remove excess moisture and make them more pliable. Once prepared, the sinews can be cut into thin strips and mixed together to create a uniform cordage.
Techniques for Combining Sinews
One effective technique for combining sinews is to use a “layering” method, where multiple layers of sinew are woven together to create a strong and durable cordage. This can involve alternating between different types of sinew, or using a combination of sinew and other materials like rawhide or plant fibers. Another technique is to use a “mixing” method, where different types of sinew are mixed together and then drawn out to create a single, uniform cordage.
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