Hemp - Rope oils, Pastes, and Waxes

Rope Oils, Pastes, and Waxes

I offer hand-oiling as an add-on treatment for all purchases of jute and hemp ropes, and I also offer rope paste made from shea butter here.

When rope rubs against other ropes or around objects, this has an abrasive effect. Adding an oil or wax to your ropes reduces the impact of this, and helps protect your ropes from microfractures. It can also improve the feel of the rope. If the rope is over-waxed or oiled, it becomes claggy and feels horrible, and there is little that can be done to correct this—so use rope oils and pastes sparingly.

Please note that rope which has been treated with oils, waxes, or pastes cannot be washed.

Oils: Everyone has a favourite oil for treating rope. My personal preference is jojoba as it is not a synthetic product and combines the attributes of oil and wax. To apply, pour a little onto your hands, rub your hands together, and then run your hands along the length of your rope in one direction, and then the other.

Rope Pastes: I use shea butter mixed with sakura. Application is the same as for oils: add a small amount to your hands, rub it in, and then run your hands along your rope.

Waxes: A mix of beeswax and oil is widely used for treating ropes. However, this is not a treatment that is suitable for vegans and not one that I sell. Some people who sell these treatments recommend applying them and then baking the rope in the oven to help the waxes penetrate throughout the rope. Please note this is not something that I recommend, as ‘cooking’ your rope may damage the yarns and reduce the strength of the rope.