Roping a Bed

I am occasionally asked to provide informationon how to rope an early bed. Since, to my knowledge, this information is not published I will explain how rope a bed properly. Note that beds with pegs in the top of the rail were not meant to be roped. They used a "sacking bottom" which is made of sail cloth (canvas) with eyelets along the edge and linen cording running between the eyelet and the peg. Rope beds always have holes through the rail.

You will need an adequate length of rope. Early beds used hemp or linen rope. You can use manila rope as a substitute for hemp. The diameter of the rope should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the hole in the rail. You will also need a straining wrench (Spanish windlass), a couple awls or large nails (golf tees also work). Refer to the diagram below as you proceed. Note the Roman numerals at the corners are the markings I use for the reprodution beds I make. Early beds may have different numbering.

Sacking Bottom, one corner of bed shown

Tie a simple loop knot in one end of the rope and use some tape to lash the other end so it does not fray as you string it through the holes. Starting at the left most hole at the head of the bed string the rope back an forth the length of the bed. when you go through the right most hole at the head end carry the rope under the rail and inside the post to the first hole in the side rail. Weave the rope over and under the rope going lengthwise. Repeat until you reach the last hole in the side rail.

To tighten the rope start at point "A". Put the straining wrench (see below) thourgh the rope like a clothes pin and use the handle to twist the wrench. While holding the rope taut with the wrench, jam your awl into the hole to hold the tension while you go to the head of the bed and tighten the next length of rope "B" in the same manner. Repeat this in the same order in which you wove the rope until you reach the end "D". At this point, wrap the rope around the wrench to secure it and tighten as before except this time jam the awl from the inside of the rail. Tie a secure slip knot as close to the outside of the rail as possible. Trim off any excess rope.

Rope springs do stretch with time so yours may need periodic tightening.

About Hemp and Manila Rope

Hemp rope is made from a strain of the marijuana plant grown for it fibrous stem. It is illegal to grow hemp in the U.S. Although hemp rope is imported, asking for it at your local hardware store will get you a knowing smile and possibly a visit from your local law enforcement agency.

Manila rope began to subsistute for hemp rope about 1820. It is made from fibers of the abaca plant, a relative of the banana. Manila rope is either natural or oiled. Oiled rope is for outdoor use and should not be used on beds as it will stain the bedding. The rope is not necessarily labeled. Oiled rope feels and smells oily and may be labeled "Not for Use with Animals". Natural rope feels dry and smells, if at all, like dry hay.

Straining Wrench, 12" tall
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