The ‘indoor’ season is upon us, and interest
in what to do with the goodies we’ve collected
from our hunting friends heats up. The following
tips are a partial list from Dyeing And
Bleaching by A.K. Best. I have left
out those which deal specifically with methods
or recipes A.K. includes in the book, but used
those which generally apply to dying. ~ DLB
"Remember the following before you attempt to dye:
- The temperature of the dye bath should never
exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit. - All material to be dyed (except tanned hides)
must be degreased. - Constantly stir and turn the material in the
dye bath. - All wet material will appear darker than when dry.
- Be certain that all excess dye has been washed away
before drying and storing the dyed material. - You must have white to dye to bright.
- The quality of your water supply may affect
some of the recipes. - Always clean your bamboo tongs with Formula
409 and a damp sponge when you have finished dying
and rinse them thoroughly. - Always clean your dye pan with Formula 409 and
paper towels each each dye bath. Rinse with hot
water and dry. - Never save used dye."
~ A.K. Best
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
Originally published November 21, 2004 on Fly Anglers Online by Deanna Lee Birkholm.