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darylrogers Regular user Wisconsin 130 Posts |
A while ago I posted a topic about remaking some Chinese sticks. They have worked well until just a while ago when the strings broke. I have been looking for suitable replacement string but am not having much luck. It can't be too thin or it gets wrapped around the gimmick. It can't be too thick or the gimmick won't pull properly. And it can't be too loosely woven or it gets shredded over time from the constant pulling. Do any of you wise guys (and I mean that in the nicest sense) have any suggestions?
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Michael Baker Eternal Order Near a river in the Midwest 11172 Posts |
Not knowing the diameter of what is currently on the sticks, I could not be certain, but you might wish to look at Hilos La Espiga Nylon 100% No. 18.
http://creativeyarnsource.com/nylon_thread.html I have ordered it online for specific colors (different project), but I believe you can find a few colors at Wal Mart and/or Hobby Lobby. It is a twisted nylon. I think braided nylon might be better though, as it would be less prone to twisting inside the sticks. Constant twisting can eventually bind the cord around the weight's eyelet. I have had that become a persistent problem with a set of stick I made for myself years ago. Here is a source for 1mm braided nylon, although I have never used it. http://www.etsy.com/listing/93198744/33-......93414624 http://www.etsy.com/listing/93414624/1mm......-braided
~michael baker
The Magic Company |
Bill Hegbli Eternal Order Fort Wayne, Indiana 22797 Posts |
As described in your OP, the reason your string is not lasting is simply friction. If you can analyze the points of rubbing and smooth them, it will help to cure this from happening as often. Something like shoe eyelets help reduce friction, if they could be installed. I have also used pop rivets, without using the rivet gun, but cutting it off and just gluing it in place.
I have found the best braided string is what is used to install rounded edges on sofa and chair seat cushions. I found very small string at Walmart. It works perfectly. If you are not one to do some shopping, then just go to furniture recovering business and obtain it there. Sorry, but I don't know the exact name, but later I found that is what this string is used for. To make that round edging on seat cushions, and pillows. Most likely the very small string is used for pillows, the kind of pillows they call throw pillows. |
darylrogers Regular user Wisconsin 130 Posts |
Thank you, guys! I will investigate these suggestions, and if I find something that works well I will post it here.
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MRSharpe Special user Never a dull moment with 940 Posts |
You used to be able to buy heavy test black braided dacron fishing line at just about any tackle shop, but Spiderwire has almost done away with it. There is also a braided line used for household traveling drapery control line that should hold up well. You can get it at any sore that deals in drapery hardware.
Custom Props Designer and Fabricator as well as Performer from Indiana, USA
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malaki Elite user 490 Posts |
I realize that this is an old conversation, but in case anyone else is looking for an answer:
My "string" of choice is satin rat tail (available at any store that carries fabric and trim). Does not easily unravel or twist. If the string does get twisted, simply hold the wand upright and bounce the tassel until it becomes works unhindered. Pulling on both ends will untwist the string very quickly. |
Dick Oslund Inner circle 8357 Posts |
Yes, BRAIDED cord is less likely to twist. White, or at least a light color, is best, so that the spec's. can see the cord!
Old Stick workers, always pull both strings out as far as possible, and, then twist the cords around the sticks to immobilize the weights in transit. I've also seen some workers push an old fashioned pipe cleaner through holes in the sticks, and the "eye" in the end of the weights, so that the weights can't twist. Sticks like those made by BREMA , used pulleys instead of screw eyes (less friction).
SNEAKY, UNDERHANDED, DEVIOUS,& SURREPTITIOUS ITINERANT MOUNTEBANK
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