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Net (device)

technology Maturity 11-13 Next article →

A net is a clever tool made of threads or yarns. These threads are knotted and twisted into a grid-like structure. This shape creates a special way of working. The holes in the grid block large items from passing through. However, small items and liquids can still flow right through.

Cargo net 01
Cargo net 01

Because they are mostly open, nets are very light and flexible. They also use less material than a solid sheet would. This makes them easy to carry and move around. Nets are useful for many important jobs like hunting and fishing.

Making a net is a careful step-by-step process. For square nets, a maker often starts with a headrope. They tie lines to this rope at regular intervals using knots. Then, they work in new rows using a knot called a sheet bend.

Netmaking
Netmaking

To work faster, makers use a netting shuttle to hold the twine. This tool helps prevent the thread from twisting as it moves. A gauge, which is often a smooth stick, keeps the holes even. The maker uses a half-size gauge on the edges to keep them smooth.

Humans have been making nets for a very long time. Some nets might even date back to the Upper Paleolithic era. Most known nets come from the Mesolithic period.

HMB Fischernetz Jungsteinzeit
HMB Fischernetz Jungsteinzeit

It can be hard for scientists to find very old nets. This is because they are often made of materials that rot away. Sometimes, nets are found preserved in ice or bogs. Other times, researchers find clay impressions left behind by old nets. These clues help us learn how people lived long ago.

Nets can be made from almost any kind of fiber. In the past, people used what they could find nearby. For example, early nets in Europe were often made of linen. Today, most people use strong synthetic materials. Nylon monofilament is a popular choice for fishing and trapping.

A Fisherman mending his Net
A Fisherman mending his Net

This type of net is transparent, so it is hard to see. Different nets are built for different jobs. A safety net must be able to slow a person down gradually. This is done by making the net harder to stretch as it grows larger.

We see nets used in many parts of our daily lives. In sports, nets are used in goals for ice hockey and football. They also separate players in games like tennis and volleyball. Some nets are used for comfort, such as mosquito nets or hammocks.

A Mayan hammock is a special kind of net. Instead of being knotted, it is made by twisting threads. This makes the net very stretchy and secure. Nets also help move goods, like cargo nets on ships or bags for onions.

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🖼️ Images & Media (7)
File:Cargo net 01.jpg
Cargo net 01.jpg
File:HMB Fischernetz Jungsteinzeit.jpg
HMB Fischernetz Jungsteinzeit.jpg
File:Netmaking.png
Netmaking.png
File:A Fisherman mending his Net.jpg
A Fisherman mending his Net.jpg
File:"The training is good, it's great. It helps us to learn and to earn a living" (11173845336).jpg
"The training is good, it's great. It...
File:Copia (2) de DSC08077.JPG
Copia (2) de DSC08077.JPG
File:Baby in mexikanischer Hängematte A la Siesta 2011.jpg
Baby in mexikanischer Hängematte A la...
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