fiber for tying bamboo

[jmbamboo]

Anyone have any idea where I can find something like synthetic coconut fiber for tying bamboo fences? Or anything that looks good and last a long time.
Jim

[jmbamboo]

Let me amend my earlier post. I searched the forum and found some answers to the question. THe "lupolino" that Mark mentions sounds like something I have used called synthetic sinew. It is great stuff but I'm looking for something with a larger diameter, more like rope. Surely something like this is being used for fence/gate building. Thanks,
Jim

[Mark Meckes]

Hi Jim,
Polyester macrame cord (it's like thicker multi-ply knitting yarn) sort of resembles the natural palm/coconut fiber twine.
It comes in numerous weights, plys and colors and one has to shop around at different clothing/sewing/ knitting/hobby outlets to get the best price and desired cord.... most of what I have comes from clearance sales and flea market finds...

An advantage of using thick cordage in a design is that you can use wire or other methods first to tightly secure the framework. The thicker cord hides the wire and the knot/lashing design serves more as an embellishment - the wire is really holding everything together.
This way the thick cordage can be used with discretion, with the intent of producing the most effective visual appeal - the viewer thinks that the thick cord is what holds everything together.

In practical terms, one can make a much more tight and securely knotted joint using finer wire and twines then with thick cord, whereas thicker cords can really enhance the look and integrity of the structure.

Mark

[jmbamboo]

Thanks Mark, I'll visit some shops tomorrow to see what I can find.
Jim