All Things String

This week's class involves experiments with string and its relations - silk, thread, rope, and other types of cordage.  Silk from spiders and from silkworms is nowadays often touted as a natural alternative to synthetic fiber cordage.  It is stronger than plastic polymers, stronger (pound per pound) than steel!  We're testing the tensile strength of string and other cordage, and trying our hand at making twisted fiber cordage, which can be made from many types of natural sources like leaves, grass or green bark.


Class Project: Silkworms
Your silkworm should spin a silk cocoon within several days, if it is kept clean, warm (80 degrees) and well fed. 

Silkworms are very sensitive to mold and bacteria so always wash your hands well before handling, cleaning and feeding. Keep the container lid on to prevent mold spores from settling in, and to stop the food from drying out too quickly.

If you run out of food, call us as we may be able to provide you with more.  You can also feed your silkworm grated carrots in an emergency, though it may turn orange.

You can learn more about your silkworm at this link to  Mulberry Farms.