I've already done my first double wrap. Underwrap gave no problems (thank for your support), but I'm having lots of problems with overwrap. It's made with Gudebrod size A metallic thread and it produces lots of "spots" once the finish is applied. These spots are like the ones produced when trimming the thread the tagg end remains in the surface but they are all over the wrap (1 or two on each one), not in the edges or produced when cutting the tread. I must be doing something wrong.

I have to "cut them" with the razor once the finish is cured and I hace to apply more coats than I think it would be necessary. It's a pitty because I like final result.

What's wrong?





Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/02/2005 03:13PM by Daniel Rotea.

Did you try sanding the finish after it was good and hard?

Daniel,
The little bumps that you are getting using metallic thread might be pieces of mylar that have separated from the thread and are sticking up.
That happens sometimes when you run the thread through a tight thread tension device. I don't like to use metallic thread as an overwrap for that reason. I use it only for trim bands. Let's see what others may think about that problem.
Cheers, Ellis

Coating the underwrap first, then overwraping might have held this down

Daniel,
I agree with Ellis, I use to get this problem, stopped running through the tensioner and use a large fly tying bobbin holder, so far no problems.

I think Ellis is right and these bumps are from pieces of mylar that have separated from the thread.

I pass the thread through a "table clamp rod wrapper" I bought in Mudhole. Mayve I use to much tension and mylar separates when it pass through the screweye. I also pass the thread between my fingers to position it into the blank. I sometimes feel like a "knot", but I don't know the reason.

As Bill suggest, I already coated the underwrap, but the problem is still there.

Myles: is that "fly tying bobbin holder" what is called "rod winding bobbin" too?



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 03/02/2005 04:37PM by Daniel Rotea.

Daniel
Go to any fly shop and simply ask for a "bobbin". It's a 'wishbone' looking thing with a tube and two steel arms that end in metal balls where the thread spool rests. They come in a couple/three different sizes so bring a spool of thread with you that you normally use. Likely you will find the larger one more useful. Oh, and get the bobbin "threader" too as it will save you a bit of time and frustration getting the thread through the tube.

I have several bobbins that I use for fly tying. My preference are the models that have a ceramic insert in the tip of the tube section. The ceramic insert is somewhat rounded inside and creates less friction.

Jeff Shafer

Excuse me while I try to explain to Daniel what a bobbin is in Castellano.
Un bobbin es lo que detiene el carrete de hilo quando uno ata plumas de pesca. Como dice Jeff, los mejores son los que tienen la punta hecha de ceramica.
I agree with Jeff, the best ones have the thread tube made of ceramic material, very smooth. By the way, Mudhole will soon have the Doc Ski Weaving DVD in stock. You can get it cheaper there than if I have one made from a VHS tape.
Cheers, Ellis

Its a common characteristic of metallic thread, you get all these little fuzzies sticking up. I usually trim them off with a razor after the 1st coat, about 24 hours later. I don't use metallic thread as an overwrap for this very reason.

Lou

I've used the metallic threads for well over 10 years. I've never had this problem. I switched to a thread tensioning device last summer/fall. I still have zero problems-???? One coat of finish and I'm done.

Putter

I've built several rods with metallic threads and all have the same problem described above. I've just lived with it or have cut the bumps down with a razor and refinished.

Maybe I've been using too much tension all along, but here's maybe a dumb question for the bobbin guys -- how do you keep the wraps tight enough with just a bobbin?

Another thing with the Gudebrod metallic that I've noticed is that some times the shiny metallic color separates and the core comes through. Then, of course, I either have to back up and tie off or start all over again.

I don't actually use a bobbin, just commented on types I prefer for fly tying.

Jeff Shafer

Using your fingers to let metallic thread slide through is a good way to seperate the core from the mylar. Hold it as loose as possible, and some of your problem will be solved.
Sanford

I have been using metallics about 98% of the time for years and run the thread through a tensioner and have never seen what is being described. Must be lucky!!!

Mike

To those that never experienced these problems: which brand of metallic thread are you using?