The SMHAEN Thread Splitter
Splitting a single-ply thread into two strands to allow space for materials such as deer hair, hackle barbs, and dubbing to be twisted into the thread has always been tricky business. However, it is often worth the effort, especially on smaller flies where a traditional dubbing loop may add too much bulk.
Splitting thread is usually done with a very pointy, thin needle. You need the steady hands of a surgeon to hit the thread just right to split the strands evenly. The thinner the thread, the harder it is to complete this maneuver! Once the thread is split, your materials are inserted between the thread fibers in the split you created. Then, you spin the bobbin, which tightens the thread around the materials, ultimately twisting them in a manner similar to a dubbing loop.
With a SMHAEN thread splitter, the hassles associated with splitting thread disappear. The tool works equally well with thick or thin thread. The innovative design of the SMHAEN thread splitter will easily split any single-ply linear fiber thread. Threads made by Semperfli, UTC, Danville, etc., are all in this category. The thread splitter’s handle is flat on one side to keep it from rolling off the table, and its bright orange handle will make it easy to find on a cluttered fly tying desk.
How It Works
SMHAEN has a series of photographs on their website (which I have borrowed here) that do great job explain how the tool works.
Step One: Flatten the thread by running the shaft of the needle along it allowing the bobbin to spin freely.
Step Two: Slide the thread to the knob at the end of the needle and allow the small edge of the knob to grip the individual fibers.
Step Three: Pull back slightly to allow the fibers to separate, then push the round knob through to split the thread into two strands.
Step Four: Open the split as long as you need and insert the materials (hackle fibers, hair, dubbing etc.) you wish to dub on the hook. Then spin your bobbin to tighten the thread around the materials and twist them into a dubbing rope.
Note: Only single-ply linear fiber threads can be split. For example: Uni Thread is made from slighty bonded, continuous polyester filaments, and therefore can’t be split
Are you interested in trying the SMHAEN Thread Splitter? Click the button below for more information.