Rope could be made from a number of things. Heather was commonly used, as was long grass. This is Iain Campbell of South Uist, making a rope from plaited heather.
Rope made from heather stems was much stronger than straw rope. It could be used to tie down thatch on a roof or to make a ladder. The rope remained strong in water and was used to tie up boats. Evidence of heather rope was found at Skara Brae, a 5000 year old stone village on the island of Orkney
Grass rope was not as strong as heather rope but it could still be used for a variety of jobs. The grass would be twisted and woven together by hand to make a length of rope.
Click to enlarge the image, read the text then answer the following questions.
Questions
- Which made the better rope - grass or heather?
- What evidence is there suggesting heather ropes have along history?
- Give three uses heather rope was put to.