MAKE YOUR OWN NETS!

(Page 5 of 5)

May/June 1983
by Tom Hamn 
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An attractive, serviceable gauge stick can be fashioned from a length of lattice or a thin strip of well-smoothed hardwood, with edges that have been gently tapered (as on a knife blade). Preferences differ, however, and the author's gauge block—shown in the photographs—is a narrow wedge about 3" long, with rounded edges. Its cross section measures approximately 114" at the base, and its sides round gently to a point that's about 118" thick. The dimensions of the tool will depend on the size you want to make the mesh: Just keep in mind that the circumference of the block should approximate the length of a fully stretched mesh (see the diagram on measuring mesh to determine this) plus the size of one knot. For a 2" stretched mesh, then, the circumference should be about 2-118"... with the additional fraction depending on the size of the knot and, therefore, on the thickness of the twine. It's best to make the block from some type of splinter- and split-resistant hardwood such as hickory (the handle of an old hammer or axe would be a good choice). After shaping and sizing the block, you should sand it thoroughly... until you're sure that even the most exasperating twine won't be able to snag on it. 

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The netting needle or shuttle is a thin , flat, flexible strip of wood, about 118" X 314" X 8", that tapers to a slight point at one end. A U-shape is carved into the other end, forming a pair of short "legs". The pointed part looks something like a flat, three-tined fork whose outer tines curve up and in to join over a middle tine. This central "tongue" should be tapered, from its base to its tip, and pointed. (Like the gauge block, the netting shuttle should be thoroughly sanded and smoothed.) 

EDITOR'S NOTE: For those of you who don't wish to make netting tools and are unable to purchase equipment locally, the Earth Guild (Dept. TMEN, 1 Tingle Alley, Asheville, North Carolina 28801) carries supplies of twine and netting needles, and will be happy to send a price list upon request.

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