Choosing the correct size of fly tying thread is a necessary part of the process of tying flys. If the thread that you choose for tying the fly is too large in diameter, then the resulting fly will have a bulky head that ruin its appearance when cast into the water. If you choose a thread that is too small in diameter for tying the fly, then the thread may snap while tying the materials to the hook, the thread isnt strong enough to perform the task.
The diameter of the thread that is chosen for tying a fly must be compatible with both the size of the hook to which it will be tied, and the weight of the materials that will be tied to that hook. The sizes of fly tying thread is on an inverse scale. Heavy threads have a higher size number than fine threads.
How to Pick the Right Thread Size for Tying Flies
People use heavy threads for tying large hooks and heavy materials to them, while fine threads are used for tying small hooks (such as midge flies) and small amount of materials to them. While it is useful to memorize the sizes of the most common threads, it is important to recognize when a thread is too thick for small hooks or too thin for heavy materials. Threads that are too thick will crowd the eye of small hooks, and threads that are too thin will break when tying heavy materials like bucktail.
A thread size chart can help to remove guesswork from the fly tying process. Thread size charts show the sizes of threads that are used for various types of flies, as well as which thread sizes are appropriate for certain types of flies, such as trout patterns or large streamer. While it is not necessary to study every type of fly and every thread size on the chart, it is useful to be familiar with the thread sizes associated with the most common hooks for the flies that is tied.
These specific spools of thread should be within easy reach when tying flies. The material that you use to tie the fly is another factor to consider in the process. Some fly tying threads are flat, and lie flat against the hook when tie.
These types of threads are used to make the bodies of the flies. Other types of threads are stronger than others of the same thickness. Tiers use these threads when tying heavy materials to the hook, such as when spinning deer hair.
It is important for new fly tiers to recognize that the strength of the thread is not always the same as its thickness. Thin threads can be strong, and thin threads that are strong can be used as an alternative to heavier threads. Tension with which you tie the thread to the hook is the last factor to consider.
It is common for people to apply the same amount of tension to each size of fly tying thread. However, this is a mistake. Heavy threads can be tied with firm pressure, but fine threads require more care and light pressure to avoid breaking the thread.
If you find that the fly tying thread breaks on small hooks, it is very likely due to too much tension on the thread rather than a defective spool of thread. By learning to reduce the tension that you place upon the thread before the thread reaches its limit, you can save time and reduce frustration in the process of tying your flies. The size of the hook that you use will have an impact upon the size of the fly tying thread that you use.
Large hooks can utilize heavier weights of fly tying thread without visually clumping the flies, but small hooks will require the use of finer weight of thread. Thus, the rule is that heavier weights of thread should be used on larger hooks, while finer weights should be used on smaller hooks. While there are charts that detail the exact weights of thread that should be used on specific size of hook, the principle is the same.
Common mistakes include the use of one size of fly tying thread for all projects. Using medium weights of thread for tying tiny may result in the heads of the flies appearing too large. Additionally, using ultra-fine weights of thread for tying large streamers will result in the thread breaking constantly due to the inability of the thin thread to secure the bulky materials.
Using various weights of thread will allow for the avoidance of these mistake. Another factor that will impact the performance of the thread is the type of bobbin that is used. Standard metal bobbins work well for nylon and polyester threads.
However, the abrasive nature of the gel-spun threads can cut at the metal within the bobbin; in this case, an insert for the bobbin made of ceramic will reduce this risk of weakening the thread. Color and finish of the thread is another factor in the tieing of the flies; however, these two factors are less important than the size of the thread. Using a color for the thread that match the natural materials will help the thread blend into the fly; alternatively, a contrasting color may create a “hot spot” or “ribbing” within the finished tie.
The finish of the thread will impact the ability of dubbing to adhere to the thread. These factors are less important than thread size, but must still be considered when tying the flies. By paying attention to the size of the thread that you use when tying the flies, consistency in the tying of the flies will be obtained.
If the thread that is used within the flies corresponds to the size of the hook and the materials to be secured, the tying of the flies will proceed without frustration. The thread will allow for the heads of the flies to remain small, the bodies to remain smooth, and the size of the entire fly to appear correct. Consistency in the tying process will allow for the completion of one type of fly to the next type of tie without frustration caused by the tying of the thread.
You should of checked your tension more carefuly. It is alot of work, but it helps you recieve better results.