Whipcord Braiding

How to construct bobbins for whipcording from wood-turned parts available at craft stores.

Simple instructions for striped or spiral-patterned whipcords, from a Skoletjenesten Vikingeskibsmuseet handout.

The Vikings devised a way to use heavy bobbins to control the ends of the thread while braiding cord. The beginning of the cord is attached overhead firmly, and the bobbins are manipulated to form the cord, while the weight of the bobbins controls the threads and keeps tension. This article provides clear instructions on the technique.

Using a lathe to make bobbins for whipcord.

Information on the technique, with photographs of the author's work.