[TheForge] Dave and other ropemakers.

[Dave Brown]

At 12:47 10/06/02 -0500, you wrote:
>Question: Is there an organic rope
>material which will stand up under the
>wet use and outdoor exposure here in
>Wisconsin? I am thinking 1.25" rope .
>
>Mike Graf

Mike,

All organic rope materials will be adversely affected by the water and 
sun.  Hemp or Cotton would be your absolutely worst choices.  The old 
sailing ships tarred the hemp just so it would last.  I'm assuming that 
your client isn't interested in tarred rope?

Then along came Manilla plant fiber.  This is stronger and much more 
resistant to rot, but will still deteriorate over a few years in the use 
you suggest, but will last much longer than hemp or cotton.

Most rope you will find today outside of a marine chandler's store will 
probably be sisal.  This makes a good rope but doesn't have the strength of 
Manilla.  It would, however, last a few years.

You can take these natural fiber ropes and treat them with linseed oil, 
penetrol, or even cuprinol or another of the water proofing liquids sold 
for decks and exposed woods.  Soak your rope (Manilla if possible) well in 
this stuff, thinning it first so it will work all the way in.  This should 
give it a much extended life.

Mike Spencer already mentioned an alternative, a synthetic manilla looking 
rope.  I believe this is made in England but has a very good 
reputation.  Personally I know very little about it beyond it's reputation.


Dave Brown
Heritage Smithing
Green Bay, WI
ABANA, UMBA, GoM, MODA, ARG