How to Make a Rod Wrapper From a Sewing Machine Motor

Use a sewing machine spindle to create a rod wrapping tool.

With an old sewing machine motor, you can create a rod wrapper for use in fishing. Wrapping a rod requires practice to learn how to wrap the rod correctly. Creating your own wrapped rods allows for customized adjustments in the tension of the fishing rod. The motor from a sewing machine will help decrease the time it takes to wrap the rod. The pedal from the sewing machine makes adjusting the tension possible by changing the degree of pressure exerted on the pedal.

Things You'll Need

• Sewing machine
• Masking tape
• Rod wrapping thread
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Place the sewing machine on a flat surface and insert a rod wrapping thread on the sewing machine spindle. If it doesn't fit, you may need to wrap the thread around a spindle specifically made for the sewing machine.

2. Attach a portion of the rod wrapping thread to the rod using masking tape. Hand turn the first two threads on the rod.

3. Engage the sewing pedal to pull the thread back towards the sewing machine by placing your foot on the pedal and pressing down. This will help to tighten the thread against the rod. The further you press down on the pedal, the faster the motor will turn.

4. Press down further on the sewing pedal to create more power from the sewing machine or release the pedal to diminish the power from the sewing machine. Using a combination of your hands and the sewing machine, you will be able to create a rod wrapping.

5. Tie off the wrapped rod by creating an overlap with the thread and cutting the end of the thread with a pair of scissors. Remove the masking tape from the rod as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not attempt to thread the rod wrapping thread through the sewing machine. You are only using the power of the machine to aid in creating a tensely wrapped rod.

References

• Advanced Custom Rod Building; Dale P. Clemens