Rod is a 1509 rainshadow surf rod with cork wrapped handle. To make a smooth transition from the reel seat down on the cork wrap do you just load the thread on? I was going to add paint pigment to the epoxy and try and match the main wraps for a test.. until I saw Rapt Tite's photo where he put trim bands on the cork. are there any down sides to this? Do you put any thing under the thread? Im new at this and want it to be "unique"
Any tips much appreciated

On the transition from the reel seat to the tape, most builders that I know just wrap over masking tape that is temporarily holding down the cork tape. When finish is applied, apply more finish toward the reel seat "edge" and the finish will generally make a smooth transition or "ramp" to the cork tape. If your planning a "marblizing" type transition WITH trim bands, you'll probablly need two steps.

Apply clear finish to thread and trim band,allow to dry thoroughly.

Apply tinted finish etc.. to the wrap after "masking" the trim area with tape. Be sure to remove the tape ASAP.

Post some pics when you're done.

I used masking tape to even the transition down, then wrapped thread to complete a smooth transition

Epoxied and done...

I make a ramp using 5-minute epoxy. Once hardned, I turn it in my wrapper to sand it to a nice clean taper and wrap thread over that and apply finish. Works nicely.

Erik

Tapered the last 3/4" of the cork tape using a wooden paint paddle with a 8" piece of self adhesive 3-M tread tape applied, 1/8 from the edge as not to scratch the blank. I put a masking tape wrap on the blank for the WOOD edge of the paddle to ride on while working in lathe
then just wrapped up the ramp

I use a single layer of electrician's tape. I then wrap thread over it and finish as usual. C2

If you want to go in another direction you could use electrical shrink tubing on the end. This makes it easier if you ever have to change the cork tape.

Thanks guys...
I never thought of marbalizing with trim bands. But you make it sound easy M.J. Can somebody direct me to good pics?
or what to type in "search"..

In your question, you said you were going to add pigment to the finish. I assumed some kind of marbelizing was going to happen there.
I've never done this, but if I were to do it, I'd do it that way.

Give it a shot if you're seeking a "unique" look.