By Sean Fagan
My trusty sewing kit when outdoors (Photo: Sean Fagan).
A while back, I accidentally ripped my rucksack. It was a small tear. It happens, especially when wayfaring through thorny woodland vegetation (thanks wild rose bush!).
With some dental floss and a needle I quickly sown up the rip.
How did it look? Terrible. I won't be getting any awards for my sewing anytime soon.
So, how did it work? It worked fantastically well!
Learn more about the bushcraft merits of dental floss...
I highly recommend carrying dental floss and a long, sturdy needle with a large eye (Larger needles are much easier to use than small needles on tough fabrics, even leather).
Because of its exceptional strength and small diameter - dental floss is good for sewing - can also be used as emergency cordage, even as a fishing line (within reason).
Dental floss comes in a water and abrasion proof, compact container - is inexpensive, of negligible weight - and is very long (dental floss in photo is 80m long!).
As much as I love dental floss I also carry a few hanks of paracord as well (for more general, heavy-duty tasks).
Still, I do like to bring some dental floss - as the ability to sew can be an important outdoor skill - especially when outdoors for a long time in remote country.
It's also good for flossing teeth : )
.*Be mindful of using scented dental floss - it can attract the unwanted attention of animals (such as bears). If in doubt purchase non-scented, non-waxed versions of dental floss.
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