a bramble fiber sling

the fibers from blackberry bushes can be made into a very strong cord suitable for sling making.

Use the spine of your knife, or the blade at a light angle to remove the thorns and branches. if you want finer strips of fiber, wear down the outer layer more.

smash the first inch of the large end to break apart the fibers. youll find a green outer layer and a lighter colored inner fiber. leave the outside on if you want a thicker cord.

separate the fibers into equal pieces, i was able to get 5 strips from each stalk.

Let your finger ride down the stalk, keeping firm pressure right behind where the fiber is being stripped off.

6 stalks worth of fiber yielding thirty 50" strips

Put 2 strips of fiber on top of each other and make their lengths slightly uneven by a few inches.

take the center and begin twisting clockwise (away from you) with right hand , while twisting towards you with left hand until a kink forms and the cords cross

hold the end with your left hand so it doesnt twist and

continue twisting the right strand clockwise until tight for about 1/2" then cross it over the top to the left side , making the left side strand now on the right- then you just keep repeating the process

when your within a few inches of running out of cord, simply set in another strand and continue to twist it in.

you can change the thickness of the cord at any time by adding or removing fibers.

150" of thick cord from about 4 stalks.

it could easily be made half as thick for braiding

being my first natural made sling i was ina hurry to see a finished product so i went with a simple split pouch, continuing the twist by doubling the fibers.

the fibers are very strong and pliable,

ive no doubt they'd work great for weaving and braiding.