Why Flatten Thread?
By Ted Leeson and Jim Schollmeyer


Some tying operations are better performed with an untwisted (or "flat") thread, other with a twisted thread. When it's important, the methods in this book indicate whether to use a flat or twisted thread. Apart from these methods, controlling thread twist has another function. The thread accumulates twist during wrapping. Each wrap around the shank introduces one twist into the thread; for a right-handed tyer, the thread twists clockwise when viewed looking down at the bobbin tip. If the thread becomes too tightly twisted, it can break. It's good practice to pause regularly during the tying of a fly to remove the twist, as shown in the photos.

Left Photo: To flatten the thread, spin the bobbin tube counterclockwise (as viewed from above). We're using floss instead of thread in this picture for visibility, floss and flat tying thread...are similar in structure.

Right Photo: As the bobbin spins, observe the tying thread where it meets the hook shank. As the twist is removed, this part of the thread will begin to spread. When it flattens to ribbon-like band, as shown here, the twist is removed. ~ Ted Leeson and Jim Schollmeyer

Credits: The previous tip is an excerpt from The Benchside Introduction to Fly Tying by Ted Leeson and Jim Schollmeyer, published by Frank Amato Publications.


Please check out the Fly Tying Section, on the Bulletin Board here at FAOL too.

If you have any questions, tips, or techniques; send them to publisher@flyanglersonline.com

Archive of Tying Tips