Split-thread softhackle SBS
Another way to use those big feathers for soft hackles.
tied here on a basic Pheasant Tail
http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/...psb67c2c0e.jpg
this feather would be perfect for a #8 but I'm interested in something more like a #18
http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/...psdbd86176.jpg
insert the barbs in clip (extend about shank length); Petijean's is a nice tool, and makes it easy to show the process in photos, but any clip will do the job
http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/...ps7ff60eee.jpg
trim the butt ends close, but leave enough to grab with the thread
http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/...ps55aa77ee.jpg
split thread (UTC 70 used here)
http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/...psad36f6bf.jpg
insert clip
http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/...ps516beb11.jpg
slide thread down till it captures the barbs and release clip
http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/...ps9a5f62f9.jpg
spin bobbin to lock in feather barbs
http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/...ps77b3bc9b.jpg
wet fingers, stroke fibers back while wrapping "hackle"
http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/...ps471a998a.jpg
half hitch, SHHAN
http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/...ps6cab9729.jpg
Craig Mathews http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbZlVPsKv9M has put together excellent instructions using oversize feathers, but for the life of me, I can't spin one like Mathews. Using the split-thread really doesn't take much longer and I've found it produces consistent results for me; YMMV.
Regards,
Scott