322 AMATEUR TACKLE MAKING, ETC. 



varnish is false economy. The best qualities of oil 

 varnish are seen to be light and clear, and free from 

 impurities when held up to the light. Prior to 

 varnishing an old rod, it is advisable to rub it down 

 (especially about the handle), with turpentine or 

 powdered pumice stone, in order to make an even 

 foundation upon which the oil varnish can harden, or 

 a coat of spirit varnish will answer the same purpose. 



SPIRIT VARNISHES FOR GENERAL TACKLE. 

 These differ very widely from those previously 

 alluded to. They will dry upon any foundation 

 whatever, in from a few minutes to a few hours. 

 Some are resinous, but these the angler should avoid, 

 as they are not adapted to resist exposure to the action 

 of the weather. Others consist of dissolved gums, and 

 some of these are good for hook wrappings, bindings, 

 etc., being fairly waterproof. The most useful may 

 be had from the following : Gum shellac, dissolved 

 in methylated spirits or vegetable naptha ; 2 oz. of 

 the gum will be sufficient for about half a pint of the 

 spirit. Place the vessel containing the admixture 

 in the influence of warm air, but if a bottle, take care 

 the cork is not tight down, or an explosion is 

 inevitable. The above is most useful as a dressing 

 for hook wrappings, and exposed silk bindings of 

 any and every description that may occur in the 

 anglers' tackle. When applied with a soft, linen rag 

 the above forms an admirable and durable polish for 

 rods and all wood work. 



LINE DRESSING. India rubber, dissolved, acts as 

 a very good dressing for reel lines. It wears well, 



