Ropespinning

Ropespinning is the craft and industrial process of turning fiber into rope by twisting fibers to form strands and then bundling those strands into a single, longer cordage. It can be performed by hand or with machinery, and has historically supported maritime, agricultural, mining, and construction activities.

Construction and terminology: Rope is made by two-stage twisting. First, fibers are drawn and spun into individual strands (singles). These singles are then twisted together in the opposite direction to form rope. The direction of twist is described as right- or left-handed lay. Common constructions include three-strand and six-strand ropes; longer lengths are often produced on a ropewalk to maintain uniform lay. Some ropes are braided rather than laid, for different mechanical properties.

Materials: Natural fibers such as hemp, flax, manila, sisal, and cotton are traditional rope materials, offering biodegradability and good grip but varying strength and moisture sensitivity. Modern ropes use synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, polypropylene, and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, which provide higher strength, lighter weight, and improved resistance to water and abrasion.

Applications and maintenance: Ropes are used for mooring, towing, climbing, rescue, and heavy load handling. Maintenance includes drying when possible, avoiding chemical exposure, and regular inspection for wear, fraying, or core damage. Splicing can join rope ends or create secure eye splices; in many cases damaged rope is retired rather than repaired.