: Well my fear was the warm water. However, I thought this stuff was
: like rawhide. That stuff lasts quite a while.

Hmmm. We seem to have overly high expectations on the longevity of wet rawhide, too. Primitives developed tanning to solve those problems, even the best leather needs additional care in wet environments.

: Anyway I will go
: with artificial. I thought it would be cool to do it all
: traditional down to the material, but since I'm skinning with
: nylon anyway I guess it's kind of silly!!! I may get some of the
: stuff anyway just to mess around with.

Let me suggest you build a longbow. Sinew was traditionally used for bowstrings and you could make several from what you have. You might even try bowfishing. From your kayak in shallow water, assuming it is legal in your area.

: I like to experience how
: things were done "back then." I am a firm believer in
: learning the old before you learn the new.

How about using some of the natural plant-based fibers? Sisal and hemp have long histories in sailing. They were frequently coated with pin tar to increase their life in wet environments. Cotton rope is natural but doesn't have the life or strength. NA indians made twine from Spruce roots. I've tried making some and recommend the process only to insomniacs. The tedium involved must explain why I've never seen any spruce twine for sale. It's easy to find the other fiber-based strings, twines, and ropes.

PGJ