The late Anthony Sanctuary, FCIS, was born into the rope and net making trade of Bridport in Dorset. After naval service during the Second World War he took up his career in the Bridport industry in 1948, gaining factory, design, sales and commercial experience before becoming company secretary and training director of what is now Bridport-Gundry plc. He learned the craft of linemaking at a time when Bridport still had line or rope walks and his knowledge of net making and rigging was gathered and put into practice in many parts of the world.

Since ancient times rope, twine and nets have been used for the essential elements of survival - hunting, roofing and bedding - yet in today's modern world they are often taken for granted. This book charts the history of the ancient crafts of rope, twine and net making, describing the traditional fibres and techniques used, as well as the modern machines and man-made fibres that took their place. With a detailed explanation of the skills of net fitting and rigging, and a list of places to visit, this Shire classic is illustrated throughout with black and white photographs showing how the methods of rope, twine and net making have evolved over the years.