How to Braid Sisal Rope

Sisal rope is ideal for cat scratching. Cat posts and trees are made with sisal rope. The rope offers cats a wood-like feel, yet is softer than wood. Cats like scratching the carpet, but most homeowners do not appreciate their carpets being torn up by cat claws. Sisal rope is an ideal alternative to carpet. It has a harder texture than carpet which cats seem to enjoy. Braiding sisal rope gives the rope a wider area for scratching. The braided rope offers the cat a spacey and firm foundation for maintaining healthy claws.

Things You'll Need

• Sisal rope Knife Duct tape Clear adhesive

Instructions

1. Cut three lengths of sisal rope at least 3 feet long with a sharp knife.

2. Connect the ends of the three lengths of sisal rope with duct tape. Wrap the tape around the ends to hold them together.

3. Make sure each length of rope extends downward, parallel to each other.

4. Take the piece of rope on your right hand side and cross it over the piece in the center. Now take the piece on your left hand side and cross it over the piece in the center.

5. Continue to alternate the sisal rope lengths, crossing one side over the center and then the next, until you reach the opposite end.

6. Secure the ends of the rope with a clear adhesive so the braided sisal rope does not come undone. Remove the duct tape from the top end and also glue those ends together. Let the glue dry for at least eight hours.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use any type of tape you might have available for holding the ends together before braiding. Duct tape seems to be the strongest. The goal is to make sure the ends stay connected until the sisal rope is completely braided, or the braid will unravel.

• If you try to braid sisal rope lengths that are not at least 3-feet long, you will find the braid isn't long enough to enjoy. Braiding any type of object shortens the object.