Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Primitive Skills => Topic started by: blindarcher on April 14, 2019, 08:13:49 am

Title: Cordage from Corn Husks
Post by: blindarcher on April 14, 2019, 08:13:49 am
The other day we had tamales for dinner, wrapped in corn husks.  I noticed the fibers of the husks might be useful making cordage.  I took just two strands and did a reverse twist into a very strong cord (see attached picture).

Has anyone made cordage from corn husks? I have made cordage and bow strings for Milkweed and was wondering if corn husks fibers would be strong enough to do the same.  The two strand cordage suggests that it might work.

Cheers!
Title: Re: Cordage from Corn Husks
Post by: Hawkdancer on April 14, 2019, 07:41:11 pm
You probably would want to do a strength/load test first! 
Hawkdancer
Title: Re: Cordage from Corn Husks
Post by: Ryan Jacob on April 15, 2019, 02:56:12 am
I’ve made cordage from it before. I wouldn’t trust it for a bowstring but it will do fine for quivers and pouches.
Title: Re: Cordage from Corn Husks
Post by: GlisGlis on April 15, 2019, 07:07:19 am
It is good for alot of weaving tasks but will decay rapidly if cycled through wet and dry conditions
I wouldn't trust for bow strings
Title: Re: Cordage from Corn Husks
Post by: Eric Krewson on April 16, 2019, 06:16:10 am
What if you waxed it heavily, would that make it stand up to more strain?
Title: Re: Cordage from Corn Husks
Post by: GlisGlis on April 16, 2019, 09:09:52 am
I think it's not suitable. I would use it only for emergency situations and very low poundage bow
if someone want to try it i'll be interested in the result tough