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The design detailed here is one of single-color overlapping chevrons with a "plus one" on the down wrap. This is a very simple wrap but is eye-pleasing. The first step in adding any geometric design or pattern to the butt end of a rod blank is color selection. The colors chosen should compliment, blend with, or sharply contrast with the color of the blank. In the following example I chose to match the color of the black grip material with the thread design and match the overwrap of the guides with the complimentary but contrasting color of the red overwraps on the guide feet. In addition, the red used on the butt wrap matches the inserted foam colors on the grips and the rosewood extension that was added to mount the gimbal at the base of the rod. The next step is to determine how long the decorative wrap will be, the diameter of the blank, and the center lines of the 0 and 180 degree axes on this simple wrap. The center line or 0 axis should be the side that faces the angler—opposite the reel on a spinning rod and on the same side as a casting or revolving spool reel. These are marked by LIGHTLY scoring the blank as shown in this photo. However, this method is not recommended on newer composite or thin walled graphite blanks. A better approach is to use either a dressmaker's pencil or existing ambient light that is reflected off the surface of the blank to determine the centerlines. The simple but effective tool shown in the photo can be made from two blocks of wood, one routed with a "v" groove to rest the blank in, and a piece of plexiglas to maintain the proper alignment of the scoring tool. Dentists' tools work well for scoring. Another approach is to lay a string across these axes and remove it after the first several turns of the pattern. I prefer the more permanent scoring technique. The blank is not damaged and a combination of the color sealant and epoxy finish will fully fill and hide these minor imperfections. Given enough time and experience, you will be able to lay out simple patterns by eye. However, for any complex or "filled" design, the spacing must be even or packing the filler thread will be very difficult, if not impossible. |
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