Here is the technique for making the “net” used in the design “Caught in the Net” I outlined last week.
In this example I am using agapanthus foliage but it can be used with green thin foliage (flax strips, typha strips, liriope) as well. When using green foliage remember it will shrink as it dries.
Making the Rope
Step one
Gather old foliage – it doesn’t matter if it is marked, this just adds to the colour variation in the finished rope.
Step two
Soak in cold water until pliable but not too soft or full of water. This may take up to 15 minutes depending on how dry the foliage is.
Step three
Select at least two lengths of about the same size
Step four
Starting with the right hand side, twist the strands to the right for two thirds of the length of that side.
Step five
Turn the bunch around so you not have the untwisted side on the right and twist in the same manner until it feels ready to turn on itself.
Step six
Gently help the twisted bunch to form a loop and twist itself together. Using the two twisted strands will form your “rope”.
Step seven
Hold the finished section in one hand and twist the top strand three times before bringing it over the top of the bottom strand. The video will help with this step.
Repeat this process with the strand now a the top.
Continue to the length desired
Joining additional foliage
To join new lengths of foliage, place a new strand against the “V” between the existing twisted strands. The twisting motion will incorporate the new length regardless of when you add it.
Twist the new strand into the top group and continue as above.
Twist the remaining new strand into the group now at the top.
Finishing Off
Use a peg or paperclip to hold the ends in place until the rope has dried.
Initially I leave the rope flat on a piece of plastic for 24-36 hours then hang it from a frame until completly dry and ready for use.
It will stay quite flexible and is surprisingly strong.
Making the Net
In truth I looked at numerous YouTube videos about making a fishing net. Look at those or the macrame ones that will give you better instructions than I can at this point!
