Pig intestine ropes

Pig intestines were commonly used in the past for producing ropes, cords, and strong threads, especially in crafts that required high strength, flexibility, and toughness of material. After thorough cleaning and processing, the intestines were split into long strips, which were then twisted or braided into strong ropes or cords. Such ropes were used, for example, for sewing leather, making musical instruments (so-called “catgut” strings), in clockmaking, for tying and reinforcing various objects, and also in surgery as suture material. An interesting fact is that the production of ropes and strings from intestines dates back to antiquity—ancient Egyptians already used intestinal fibres for musical instruments and bows. Although the term “catgut” is used, in reality sheep, goat, pig, and cattle intestines were most commonly used, as they are longer and stronger. Pig intestines were especially popular where sheep or cattle intestines were used for other purposes (for example sausage production), or when readily available material had to be used. Another interesting fact is that, besides ropes and strings, pig intestines were also used to produce various craft and utility items—for example membranes, footballs, and even window coverings (stretched and dried intestinal membranes allowed light to pass through). Thanks to their strength and elasticity, intestinal cords remained important until the widespread use of synthetic materials in the 20th century.