Rope Maker (Straw-made)
なわせいぞうこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Traditional manufacturing technician who twists straw together to produce ropes.
Description
Straw rope makers select dried straw, preprocess it, and then twist and weave it by hand or using simple machinery to produce ropes. They manufacture ropes of various thicknesses and lengths for uses such as agricultural materials, thatching roofs, festival decorations, and craft materials. While inheriting traditional techniques, they also handle quality control and dimensional management, working in small-scale workshops or manufacturing facilities centered on manual labor.
Future Outlook
As a traditional handicraft, the number of practitioners is declining, but niche demand is expected to be maintained and expanded due to interest in crafts, tourist souvenirs, and natural materials. On the other hand, aging and lack of successors pose challenges.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with hands and skilled at detailed work / High concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Freelance / Regional Agriculture Collaboration / Small-scale Production / Workshop Work
Career Path
Apprentice Craftsman → Rope Manufacturing Worker → Veteran Rope Master → Master Craftsman → Independent/Workshop Management
Required Skills
Quality and Dimension Management / Rice Straw Processing / Twisting Processing / Weaving Technique
Recommended Skills
Drying Management / Safety and Hygiene Knowledge / Traditional Craft Techniques / Twisting Machine Operation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To maintain consistent thickness and uniform twisting |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to prolonged manual work and carrying heavy bundles of straw |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Communication Skills | Because there are many opportunities for focused solo work |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because the work is mainly routine tasks |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Only basic visual estimation and measurement are required; no advanced numerical analysis needed |