How to Shock Macrame Yarn for Fly Tying

Hand Tied Olive, Black and Silver Minnow Fly Fishing Fly image by Chuck Alexander from Fotolia.com

Macrame yarn has become popular for use in fly tying. It comes in a variety of colors to match any number of flies and is typically broken down into its strands for use. This makes it last a long time. The yarn is easily found at craft supply stores such as Hobby Lobby, Benjamin Franklin or Michael's. It is sold in bundles and is fairly cheap. All this makes it a good option for tying flies.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Macrame yarn
Fine tooth comb, preferable metal
Scissors
Sharp pointed object such as an ice pick

Step 1

Cut a section of macrame yarn anywhere from a couple inches to half a foot, depending on the use.

Step 2

Soak the yarn in floatant before going any further if you will be using it for dry flies. This will aid the finished fly in floating.

Step 3

Unbraid the bulk of the yarn and break it apart, using an ice pick or other pointed object. It is best to start on an end. Starting in the middle can stop the tool short.

Step 4

Comb the strands with the metal comb to pull them completely apart. You only need a small portion for a single fly, so a section of yarn can last a long time. If you are unsure where to find a metal comb, try the pet section of a store.

Step 5

Pull out the quantity of strands you want for a fly and put the rest away. It is best to your strands in a sealable container so that they don't get tangled or lost.

Article Written By Keith Dooley

Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...