The most common silk thread to use, which is they type we carry, is 3/0, which is half the diameter of regular nylon "A" thread. This means that you'll have to put twice as much on each wrap. Nylon is definitely easier for "newbies." We sell FishHawk silk, which is made by YLI in Japan. Some people find the Gossamer difficult to use because it is most commonly found in 6/0, which is very fragile.

You can put a hand rubbed finish on the rod in either satin or glossy. If so, you won't have to mess with a dip tube. PVC is fine if you choose to build a tube. The "pros" hoist the blank out of the tube slowly, just an inch or two per minute!!

I'd first try to clean up the old grip before bothering with a new one.

I always, ALWAYS, say "don't make yourself crazy!" You can study details and get opinion for months, and all it does is inhibit you from starting because you're afraid something won't be quite right. Build the rod, learn from your mistakes, form your own opinions and then give it another try!

There is no perfect way!

Ron -