What Is Oakum and Why Does “Pick Oakum” Matter?
Oakum is a term rooted in maritime history and shipbuilding. It refers to a fibrous material made from old rope, traditionally hemp or cotton, that has been stripped of its fibers, soaked, and then compacted. The resulting substance is used for sealing seams between planks, caulking hulls, and packing joints to make a vessel watertight. The phrase “pick oakum” usually appears in the context of maintenance, restoration, or historical reenactments, where artisans manually separate the fibers or prepare oakum for use.
Historical Significance of Oakum
During the age of sail, oakum was essential for keeping wooden ships afloat. Sailors would pull out the fibers from old rope, wash them in salt water, and then bundle them into tight rolls. The fibers were packed into seams and then heated or pressed to seal the hull. Because the fibers swell when wet, they create a tight, waterproof barrier.
- Used in caulking—the process of sealing gaps in wooden structures.
- Made from recycled rope, promoting resourcefulness on long voyages.
- Integral to the maintenance of wooden warships, merchant vessels, and even early submarines.
Modern Uses of Oakum
Today, oakum is still employed by ship restorers and hobbyists. It is also used in construction for filling gaps in timber frames, in artistic projects such as fiber art, and in some traditional crafts where a natural, biodegradable sealant is preferred.
- Restoration of historic vessels.
- Construction of wooden boats and canoes.
- Creative projects requiring natural fibers.
Understanding the Phrase “Pick Oakum”
“Pick oakum” is a verb phrase that can describe two related actions:
- Picking the fibers from old rope to create new oakum.
- Using a picking tool or a set of tweezers to separate individual strands for precise applications.
In contemporary tutorials—often found on video platforms—experts like Rick Pali explain the process step-by-step, demonstrating how to properly pick and prepare oakum. These videos usually include a brief explanation of the tools involved and a pronunciation guide for the word “oakum.”
How to Pick Oakum: A Quick Guide
Below is a concise, practical outline for anyone looking to start picking oakum, whether for a restoration project or a craft.
- Gather Materials
- Old rope (hemp or cotton preferred).
- Large bowl of warm, salty water.
- Stiff brush or wooden spoon.
- Fine tweezers or a pick tool.
- Strip the Rope
Use a knife or scissors to cut the rope into manageable sections. Then, use a brush or spoon to loosen the fibers.
- Soak the Fibers
Place the rope sections in the bowl of warm salty water. Allow them to sit for several hours to soften the fibers.
- Pick
