Soft hackle collar length

[PETI]

A while back at a round table we were shown a way to shorten the length of the collar fibers of a softhackle . It was a very handy way to get just the right length on the collar and to make use of the larger feathers on a well used skin.
Unfortunately, none of us can remember the technique used.
Do any of you fine and experienced gentlemen have any ideas?

Peter

[2 Bead Pupa]

I do this all the time and it works great . Tie a closed dubbing loop and insert a hook tool into it. Next , you strip off the desired amount of hackle , trim the end that was stripped to allow it to spin better , and insert them into the loop . Now before you release them , it's best to put some twist into your thread first. O.K. , now release the hackle and add more twist with the hook tool . Wrap it on and preen 'em back . Good-Luck

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Life is like a fly swap...You never know what your going to get.

[Jayatwork]

One way is to wrap the hackle farther back on the hook shank than normal. Then pull the fibers forward and wrap over them so the tips are extending out over the eye. Wrap your body then pull the hackle back and wrap in front of it.

Jay

[Donald Nicolson]

Peti,
I have just sent an e-mail with an attachement which I think is what you want.

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Donald/Scotland

[PETI]

Thank you all for your replies.
Here's another method that was suggested and the one I (now) remember from the round table.
Loosely tie in the feather (just the tip, with the unwanted barbules stripped from the stem) with the tips toward the bend, distributing the barbules evenly around the shank. Pull the stem to get the desired length and tie down.
Love having more than one solution to a problem.

Peter

[This message has been edited by PETI (edited 20 May 2005).]