Unraveling the Art of Cord Making: “Weaving by the Sea”
Beginning of April, I had the pleasure of joining Fiber Artist Tim Johnson for a two-day cord making workshop in Vilanova i La Getru near Barcelona. Alongside fellow enthusiasts from around the world, we delved into the intricacies of creating cords from a diverse range of plant materials. Some of the plants we processed were:
Tilia - Tilia europaea
Soft Rush - Juncus effusus
Common Reed - Phragmites australis
Esparto Grass - Stipa tenacissima
Yellow Flag Iris - Iris pseudacorus
Cord making, fundamental to a variaty of basketry techniques, has deep historical roots, serving as a vital tool throughout human civilization. Under Tim's guidance, we explored various plant fibers, learning to transform them into functional cords using different manual twisting techniques.
From the practical to the profound, cordage has been integral to our development as a species. Our ancestors' resourcefulness in utilizing plant fibers for binding, weaving, and construction speaks volumes about our connection to the natural world.
My experience at the workshop was not only enlightening but also inspiring. It showcased the beauty and versatility of plant fibers while highlighting the enduring significance of cordage in human history. In the hands of skilled artisans like Tim Johnson, the ancient craft of cord making continues to captivate and inspire.
Suitcase full of fibers and twisted ropes after 2-days of workshop.
