Rod Wrapping - An alternative way to Wrap

Author: Angibow Ninja Wrapper

There are many of ways to wrap guides on a rod. They all seem get the job done. Some processes require very little in the way of supplies and equipment and others go to extremes.

 

The old school rod wrappers, for example, held the rod section and guides in their fingers and wrapped the thread with a bobbin similar to those used for fly tying. On the opposite end of the spectrum you can invest in a rod wrapping machine and produce many guide wraps all with fine results.

 

Between these extremes there exists an approach that I have found satisfies the casual and serious rod wrapper.

 

In my view, the application of thread onto a rod blank and over a guide foot needs to be controlled both in position and tension. The continual application of tension is an immense aid while completing a wrap. If it becomes necessary to "Back-up" the process it should be easily accomplished without the thread moving out of position on the rod blank and or losing tension. The same holds true should your grasp on the rod blank need to be relaxed and the rod not be able to turn, un-winding the wrap, thus losing tension.

 

The task at hand was to come up with a wrapping jig for this process that provided control for both of these considerations.

 

A. - The rod blank was cradled in adjustable yokes and retained with medium sized rubber bands. Other design considerations were incorporated to protect the blank from being scratched or abraded while being held in the yokes.

B. - A movable thread holder and guide was designed to retain two spools of thread with constant, adjustable, tension on both. The holder also is positioned for optimal view of the thread as it is being wrapped into place on the rod blank.

 

This combination will allow the wrapping to be done accurately while maintaining a consistent thread tension throughout the process without the need to maintain a constant grasp on the rod blank.

 

The ability to control all of the following factors while wrapping include;

Rod blank rotation method and speed, (Nothing like hand eye co-ordination to meet the need)

Positioning of the thread, (Easily visible with good eye position to align the thread)

Tension of the thread, (Light springs are a wonderful advantage here)

Tension on the rod blank, (Light friction created by pressure applied by rubber bands)

These were paramount to the process.

 

The benefits of this approach will yield wraps that are even in their placement and in tension which are important factors in a quality wrap.

 

Check out my website for a complete picture of my take on wrapping guides on rods and pictures of the wrapping jig discussed here.

 

Angibow

"The Old Rod Wrapping Ninja"

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/fishing-articles/rod-wrapping-an-alternative-way-to-wrap-3096505.html

About the Author

For further information on rod wrapping see my Rod Wrapping Ninja web site.

For a complete "How To" Guide check out my Rod Wrapping Guide .pdf or spiral bound bench copy.

For further articles on rod wrapping see my Articles page