Power Plants: Cordage and Colonialism

Learn the art of cordage making at the Ulster Transport Museum on Saturday 23rd August. 

Take part in a free, one-day workshop exploring the ancient craft of cordage making — the process of twisting or braiding plant fibres into rope, with Alison Pascoe of ASTRL Fibres and Craig Sands of Grow NI. 

Cordage is a slow and meditative practice that renews our connection with nature and can be made using natural materials gathered from both wild and urban places.

In this workshop you'll learn:
 

• The basics of the twisted cordage technique
   

• Tips for collecting and preparing natural fibres
   

• The cultural and political histories of the materials used, including common flax (Linum usitatissimum) and New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax)
   

As part of the session, you’ll also make your own 'Good Intentions' talisman using cordage and any small items of personal meaning like feathers, pebbles, shells, leaves and seed pods. Feel free to bring your own pieces along.