Where craft becomes ritual, and play becomes art
Traditional rope-making - once the backbone of our navies, farmers, and dockyards - now critically endangered.
Endangered craft
As per the Red List of Endangered Crafts
Made in Cambridgeshire, England
In Simon's workshop
Small batch, sustainable production
Gem uses natural fibres and deadstock yarn
Made by Gem, these decoations are made of hand laid 8mm rope, and hand knotted into a little bauble.
Complete with a little ribbon loop for hanging, and available in traditional red and green, or an icy, wintery blue and cream mix.
Handmade to order. Please allow 5-10 working days.
Craft Status
Endangered
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About the maker: Gem, Tightrope Knots
Rope making is a rare and endangered craft, and Gem is among the very few practicing it in the UK today. With nearly seven years of experience, she first honed her skills at the historic Arthur Beale - one of the country’s oldest yacht chandlers - before setting out to make rope entirely by hand. Now, she transforms her distinctive, hand-spun ropes into an array of unique creations, from dog leads and juggling balls to doorstops and even earrings. With endless colour combinations to choose from and a love for bespoke projects, Gem brings fresh life to a timeless tradition.
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Each craftwork on our website is handmade, so almost any can be adjusted to your exact specification.