Quick Answer
For making strong cordage, the best trees are those with thick, fibrous bark that can be easily stripped and processed into usable cordage. Popular options include the cedar, cypress, and pine trees, as well as certain species of willow and birch. These trees have a high concentration of long, flexible fibers that make ideal cordage.
Choosing the Right Trees
When selecting trees for cordage, look for species with thick, fibrous bark that is easy to strip. The bark should be at least 1-2 inches thick and have a high concentration of long, flexible fibers. Some popular options include the eastern white cedar, southern cypress, and loblolly pine, as well as certain species of weeping willow and paper birch. These trees are commonly found in many parts of North America and can be identified by their distinctive bark patterns.
Stripping the Bark
To strip the bark from the tree, start by making a small incision in the trunk or branch using a saw or knife. Then, use a drawknife or other tool to carefully peel the bark away from the tree. It’s best to strip the bark in the direction of the fibers to avoid damaging the underlying wood. For trees like cedar and cypress, the bark can be stripped in large sheets, while for trees like pine and willow, the bark is typically stripped in smaller pieces.
Processing the Bark
Once the bark has been stripped, it needs to be processed into usable cordage. Start by soaking the bark in water to rehydrate the fibers and make them easier to work with. Then, use a combination of pounding, scraping, and twisting to break down the fibers and align them in a consistent direction. Finally, use a spindle or other tool to twist the fibers into rope or cordage.
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