Black rigging thread – Caldercraft
Caldercraft black rigging thread is the classic choice for a realistic representation of ‘tarred’ rigging on historical ship models. The dark colour provides the typical, authentic contrast to the light-coloured rigging and emphasises the structure of the rig – especially on models where the standing rigging should be clearly visible.
Areas of application on the model
Black rigging cord is mainly used where heavy, protected or tarred rigging is often found on the original – usually on the standing rigging:
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Shrouds (lateral support for the masts)
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Stays (forestay, mainstay, etc.)
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Backstage and parduns
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Support and safety ropes on the mast and rig
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Webbing can also be made in dark colours (or deliberately slightly lighter for visual separation), depending on the model and era.
The quality of the yarn is particularly noticeable in shrouds and stays, because long, taut lines must appear clean and even.
What makes this thread so special
For convincing rigging, it is important that the thread does not look like sewing thread, but like miniature rope. This rigging thread typically scores points for:
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Uniform thickness for a calm, clean overall appearance
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Rope-like appearance instead of a ‘smooth thread look’
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Good knotability: knots can be tied precisely and remain dimensionally stable
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Neat surface: usually looks much ‘tidier’ in the finished rigging than simple craft yarns
Available in different thicknesses
Realistic rigging depends on graduated diameters. Black rigging yarn is available in different thicknesses so that you can clearly distinguish between stronger stays/shrouds and finer details, for example.
Tip for a harmonious appearance
For a realistic result, the following method is often used:
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Black for the standing rigging (supporting, stabilising)
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Natural/light for the running rigging (operational, movable)
This creates the typical look of historical rigging – clearly structured, credible and to scale.
Technical data
Thickness: 1.8 mm
Length: 5 m
Colour: black
