Wild Cordage
Learn to make cordage (string) from a variety plants which we’ll forage for on the day. When you make your own, you’ll never look at a humble ball of twine in the same way again.
Two dates in 2026:
May 16 (Saturday)
June 12 (Friday)
10.30am – 5pm
£145
Venue Open air woodland setting in a 70 acre ancient woodland on a family-run working farm: peaceful and beautiful Dernwood Farm Nr Heathfield, East Sussex.
String has many varied uses, and can be seen as the base of human material culture. Some say it’s one of the main skills that make us human because it’s been so key to our survival and evolution as a species.
What you’ll learn
You’ll forage and process at least 5 different plants, which need varying degrees of preparation to make into cordage. We’ll cover the key principles of fibre prep and extraction from leaf, stem and bast. You’ll come away with a thorough understanding of how to make cordages for various uses and from different types of plants. You’ll make a range of cordage samples that encapsulate this knowledge.
There will be various examples of how cordage can be used, inspiring you to incorporate cordage into your own craft projects.
What’s included
A simple but hearty and delicious organic vegetarian lunch is provided, cooked on the camp fire. We’ll also have a kettle on the fire, with teas, biscuits and fresh fruit available all day.
I aim to offer you a satisfying learning experience as well as an enjoyable time away from it all. To support you in getting the most from the days, we’ll connect to the woodland surroundings through a short and simple, guided mindfulness-based practice.
Loved the Wild Cordage day. Ruby makes ancient techniques simple and achievable, and imparted a vast amount of knowledge in bite-sized chunks. Totally inspired and can’t wait to make more! Julie & Matthew Bruton-Seal, Norfolk. Authors of ‘Hedgerow Medicine’
Who this is for
Suitable for all levels.
Group size is limited to 12 participants.
Follow-on courses: Looped Rush Bags, Nettle Net Bags
Accommodation
Camping is available at the farm venue and details will be sent to you when you book on the course. The farm also has glamping options, including cosy bell tents and cabins with wood-burners. The cost of staying at the farm is not included in the course. Read about all accommodation options.
Any questions?
Please have a look at the FAQ page
See you in the woods!
Featured in the Guardian lifestyle section. National Geographic & Toyota put Native Hands in their top 125 UK adventures.
