Fastenings novice must learn (5)

I believe the answer is:

ropes

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'fastenings' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ropes that I've seen before include "Lashings" , "Painters" , "Stout cords" , "Stays" , "Onion or pearl strings" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.

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