Twine is strong string made by twisting plant fibres together. In Kenya people use twine for baskets, mats, fishing nets and small ropes. Twine can be made from sisal, coconut fiber (coir), banana fibre, papyrus and long grasses.

1. Gather two equal small bunches of fibre. Keep them tidy and straight.
2. Hold one bunch in each hand. Leave a short tail to tie later.
3. Twist each bunch in the same direction (for example, twist both clockwise).
4. Now, cross the two twisted bunches over each other in the opposite direction (if you twisted clockwise, cross them counter-clockwise). This makes a strong twine!
5. Keep twisting and crossing until you reach the end. Tie a knot to finish.

• Make a friendship braid — small twine cords tied together.
• Weave a tiny coaster by coiling your twine in a circle and sewing it with more twine.
• Decorate a jar or bottle by wrapping twine around it for a colourful look.

• Always ask an adult to help with scissors or sharp tools.
• Moisten fibres a little with water to make them easier to twist.
• Keep your hands clean and dry after working with fibres.

Twine — strong string made from fibres.
Fibre — the plant threads you twist together.
Twist — turning fibres to make them tight and strong.
Braid / Coil — ways to join twine into useful shapes.

1. What is twine made from?
2. Name two plant fibres used in Kenya.
3. Why do we twist fibres before crossing them?