Dubbing Loop Variation

[ScottP]

With a traditional loop, there are times when the gap between the thread strands can cause problems, especially with hard-to-manage stuff like marabou, moose body hair, etc. Even with a good coating of wax, it's not easy to keep the material where you want it until the loop is spun and the fibers are locked in.

(Uni-stretch used here for clarity)






You can twist the strands together and tie them down to close the gap, but that adds time and extra wraps.





A little different approach here eliminates the space and makes it easier to hold the stuff in place pre-rotation.




instead of going over the top of the shank, take the thread underneath, right next to the "outbound" leg




come up and over from the back side (now you're tying like Charlie Craven)




go behind the loop




then over the top; the loop is locked in place and the gap is pretty much eliminated






Regards,
Scott

[NJTroutbum]

Scott, great example and explanation. I use the same technique for the LTD. Nice post.

Ralph

[lastchance]

Good job and great idea. I don't know if i do it that or not, but I will make sure I do next time.

[ducksterman]

I saw Phil Rowley on one of his videos start the loop more forward...then over wrapping it back to the rear tie in point while holding the loop straight back....I like it.

[Beaver]

Nice. Have to try that next time. Hope I remember it at the time.

Beaver

[bikebum]

I don't remember where I learned that little trick but until I did I was convinced dubbing loops were just an evil trick played on rookie fly tiers like taking them on a snipe hunt. By making the loop like this it is possible to even use a dubbing loop for the smallest applications. I have used it to make tiny collars on nymphs with sheer 14/0 thread