Bodkin, the needle tool for fly tying, if bought commercially
usually has a half-hitch knot tool on the handle. The handle
can also be used to pack hair, on a hook. They are the same
shape and diameter as a No. 2 Graphite Pencil. I also have
additional half-hitch tools in different sizes for larger and
smaller hooks. You can purchase these commercially also, and
the shape and size are the same as the Bodkin.
I have trouble holding the Bodkin, the metal makes the Bodkin
slick and slippery. I have dropped the Bodkin on the floor
more times than I wish to remember. Same goes for the
Half-Hitch Tools/Hair Stacker. With the Half-Hitch Tools, I
have another problem. Figuring out which one to use, and which
end. They are not marked so it is always a trial an error when
selecting one.
Then while I was in the Department Store, I got an idea when
I was passing thru the School Supply Section.
There in front of me on the shelf, was a package of Pencil Grippers,
to help you grip your pencil better. Duh? So I bought a package
and went home. Was hungry from thinking so hard, so I made myself
a Peanut Butter and Jalapeno Sandwich (don't knock it, if you haven't
tried it, they are great!)
I placed one pencil grip on my Bodkin, now I am able to hold it
better. Then I dug out my Half-Hitch Tools.
But here I cut the remaining Pencil Grips, and used the different
colors to designate the different ends of the tool. Now I have
a good grip on the situation, and I know what end to use at a glance.
Please check out the Fly Tying Section, in the Bulletin Board, on FAOL.
If you have any questions, tips, or techniques; send them along.
Most of this material someone else thought of it before we did,
they just forgot to tell anyone about it. Or else we just forgot
about it, while learning something else. Let us share with
each other, all the things we know! ~ Steven H.
McGarthwaite parnelli@attbi.com (Chat Room AKA Parnelli)
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