Quick Answer
Yes, there are certain trees with bark that is not suitable for cordage due to its composition, texture, or other factors, such as being too thin, too thick, or containing sap, which can make it difficult to process or unreliable in terms of tensile strength.
Trees with Unusable Bark
When foraging for trees with usable bark, it’s essential to steer clear of certain species that have bark that is not suitable for cordage. Trees like the Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), with its thick, fibrous bark, can be challenging to work with due to its size and density. Similarly, the paperbark maple (Acer griseum) has a bark that is thin and too fragile to be used for cordage.
Identifying Bark Characteristics
When searching for trees with usable bark, look for species with bark that is thick enough to be substantial but not so thick that it’s difficult to process. A good rule of thumb is to avoid trees with bark that is less than 1/4 inch (6 mm) or more than 1/2 inch (13 mm) thick. The ideal bark should be around 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick, as this makes it easier to strip and process.
Processing Techniques
To increase the tensile strength of your cordage, it’s crucial to remove the pith and sapwood from the bark. This can be achieved by scraping or peeling the bark, depending on the species and texture. For example, the bark of the cedar tree can be scraped to remove the pith, while the bark of the pine tree can be peeled to remove the sapwood.
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