Fly Tying Thread Vs. Sewing Thread

When it comes to tying flies, the thread is by far the most crucial factor to consider. This is, of course, in addition to the hook. The best fly-tying thread will hold all of the other components in place, which is why it is so vital.

Can You Use Sewing Thread for Fly Tying?

If you are looking for a cheap and ubiquitous thread as a fly-tying material, then sewing thread would be the best for you. Its thick and bulky nature will efficiently serve the purpose.

It is thick and will not lay flat, has a rough texture, and can help you become a better fly dresser if you use it.

Because of these traits, you are forced to be more aware of each wrap you make. It teaches you how to plan ahead and economize your movements. It quickly builds thickness, which can be beneficial or detrimental depending on the style of fly you are tying.

What Is the Importance of a Fly-Tying Thread?

Fly-tying thread is the most critical item and the entire work of a fly tier’s bench depends on it. Silk was formerly the only thread option, but today there are a plethora of thread materials in a bewildering assortment of sizes and permutations.

Choosing the proper thread will let you better control your materials, resulting in more durable and appealing flies. Even the best efforts can backfire if the correct thread is not used.

Nylon and polyester threads are lighter and tougher than silk, making them more suitable for fly tying today. Polyester has less elasticity than nylon, so you should be able to keep a tighter grip on the thread.

The stretch in nylon, on the other hand, acts as a breakage buffer and creates a “rubber-band” effect that helps you grip materials better. Nylon thread is colored after it is manufactured, resulting in more bright, fluorescent hues than polyester thread.

Why Should You Use Sewing Thread as a Fly-Tying Thread?

As mentioned above, sewing thread is unique and fulfils the essential requirements for a material to be used as a fly-tying material. It is a top pick whenever the best fly-tying material is considered.

Some of the significant advantages are given below:

• Sewing Thread Is Thicker

Sewing thread is much thicker in nature than the normal fly-tying thread. Sewing thread resembles a small rope of dubbing, thus it appears buggy as well.

• Hydroscopic In Nature

It has the ability to absorb water. Sewing thread is usually created from a range of materials, but some, such as cotton, absorb a lot of water and help your fly sink without adding weight.

• It Is Inexpensive

Sewing thread can be up to 50% less expensive than fly tying thread. As a result, you may stock up on more hues for the same price (or less). It also lowers your overall cost per fly, increasing their “disposability.”

• Easily Available

Have you ever run out of your favourite tying thread in the middle of a session and then discovered the fly shop is closed? If you use sewing thread, this will never happen. It is available at the grocery and all-night drugstores. There is a good chance you already have some stashed away in a junk drawer. Sewing thread is readily available whenever you require it.

• A Wider Range Of Options

You will be shocked by the number of threads and their various colours and materials, including metallic ones. There are considerably more sewing thread alternatives than there are in the fly-tying industry, allowing you to make some truly distinctive-looking flies.

What Is the Difference Between a Fly-Tying Thread And a Sewing Thread?

Fly tying thread is almost entirely composed of synthetic materials (polyester and nylon), whereas sewing thread is usually always made of natural fibres (like cotton).

Fly Tying Thread

Torsion strength is the most significant factor that differentiates a conventional sewing thread and a fly-tying thread. Fly tying threads are a far more practical option for fishermen all over the world because of the components and materials used.

When comparing these threads to their sewing counterparts, you will note that they have a delicate structure that is not suitable for fishing.

The fly-tying thread comes in a range of colours and will lay flat on the setup, in addition to greater strength. It would be simple to maintain a fly setup while using the fly-tying thread if you used a portable vice. The only disadvantage is that, as compared to sewing threads, fly-tying threads might be more expensive.

Sewing Thread

The majority of sewing thread on the market is comprised of cotton, which has low durability and tensile strength. When you try to use it in tough conditions, it rots quickly and breaks away after a few uses.

Due to less durability, it is recommended for beginners to use fly-tying thread in their setups. Although there is a price difference, it should not have a significant impact on your budget.

It does not lay flat on the setup and stands out in a cylindrical shape. As a result, it has a negative impact on the strength of your setup. It also makes it more difficult for anglers to keep track of their fishing unit’s efficiency.

Related Questions

Why does my fly-tying thread constantly break?

A poorly adjusted bobbin is one of the most prevalent causes of thread breakage, especially with a new bobbin. Sharp edges and hook points can cut the thread, but if it breaks, it is usually due to too much tension, which is frequently caused by a poorly fitted bobbin.

What is the most effective fly attractant?

To cover all your bases, a combination of sweet and meat is usually the best option. Combine meat leftovers (the older the better) and something sweet. Many people swear by rotten fish or shrimp, which are perhaps the most effective due to their strong odour.

Final Verdict

You could also seek advice from local anglers, depending on the water conditions. They will explain the many types of tying threads that you can utilize for your arrangement.