braids and backsourcing

My first stop in Kallis’ writing was her use of the term “backsourcing.” Compared with the term “outsourcing,” this conveys the idea of taking back the means of production. But not like in a “seize the means of production” kind of way, more in the sense of being self-sufficient, returning to the ancient values of producing goods with our own hands to serve our own needs (and the needs of the local community). Another stop for me was in the idea that backsourcing encourages environmentalism without all of the fire-and-brimstone rhetoric so often employed to scare folks into buying electric vehicles and such. Compared with rampant consumerism, I think this is a much healthier, natural way to promote a sense of place within our communities, and even to feel more connected with ourselves.  

 

With regards to the first video… the thought of trying to make those braids/ropes in class makes me a little anxious. The Turkish lace and multi strand braid especially look pretty difficult and I can already see myself getting frustrated with my fat stupid fingers. The S or Z-ply rope look more manageable, but I was much more interested in the idea of rope making being amongst the most ancient of technologies. Basically anything being “ancient” greatly appeals to me, and that there are mathematical connections to be made on top of that is like icing on the cake. If my fingers were more dexterous, I can definitely see braiding/rope-making being a semi-regular hobby of mine. Relating this back to Kallis' writing, it certainly seems like a skill which would promote backsourcing, and I'm definitely on board, but also I wonder: for what purposes might I actually use braids or ropes in my daily life.