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Anglers Collectibles INFORMATION Bishop Rodmakers E-Mail
Darrell |
Silk Line Reconditioning Here is some information good to know about reconditioning your silk lines. First, the old finish must be removed. There are several agents that will do it, including alcohol, gasoline, benzene, naphtha, and commercial paint and varnish removers. Alcohol and gasoline seem to work equally well. Commercial removers will do the job, but there is danger in permitting the liquid to soak into the fabric of the line, damaging it. Probably best to avoid gasoline as it remains HIGHLY FLAMMABLE long after applying. If the line is very stiff, soak it briefly in alcohol and that should free up the line, do not over soak. Once the line has softened, then proceed below. Stretch the line tightly between wooden pegs spaced as far apart as possible - a large attic offers the best opportunity for this; then dip a clean rag into the remover and begin rubbing. Gradually the old finish will disappear, exposing the fabric core. Continue until all the finish is off. It will take you somewhat longer to do this than it did to read these directions. There are any number of line-dressing formulas, but the principal ingredients in all of them are linseed oil and varnish. Fred Hollender's, which some are using with excellent results, calls for a half-and-half solution of mastic varnish and linseed oil. You can buy the mastic varnish at any artist's supply store. (The Mucillin will do fine too) Mix up only enough of the formula to give the line one application, as the mixture becomes gummy after a while and cannot be used again. Rub the dressing into the line with a clean cloth, letting the fabric soak up as much of the solution as it will hold...Then allow the line to dry for at least a week before giving it another dressing. At least four or five coats, and possibly even more, will be needed to build up a smooth surface...If the line feels sticky to the touch, allow it a longer time to dry between dressings. If it fails to dry completely within a couple of weeks, increase the linseed oil and cut down the varnish to about 60-40. After the final dressing, allow the line plenty of time to dry thoroughly. Then, while it is still hanging, dress it with a coat of wax applied with a soft cloth and rubbed down until the surface is smooth and glassy. Good luck and tight lines!
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