Mark Cook lives on Orkney where he transforms rope washed up on the island’s shores, or bundles donated by local fishermen, into objects for the home using traditional knotting techniques. Every year 11,000 tonnes of fishing nets and rope – known as ghost gear – ends up in European seas. All Mark’s products have a provenance label, stating where the rope was sourced and how many miles he has recycled in total. The plastic sea rope is durable and will stand years of wear in the home or garden. Mark is a member of the International Guild of Knot Tyers (IGKT), an association of people preserving and teaching traditional knots and knotting techniques. The association counts more than a thousand members worldwide, and membership is open to anyone.