Wrapping Thread

[Bass_Bug]

that's the only part of the jig I use though, I just hold the rod in my hand rather than trying to turn it while in the jig.

Not keeping it in the cradles on the jig, can give you inconsistent tension on the thread. If you're holding the blank, the tension is going to loosen and tighten with every wrap as you adjust your grip on it. I'm guessing this could be your tension problem.