problems with distribution wrap

[dbk]

I was wondering if anyone might be able to offer me some assistance in learning how to perform a distribution wrap for patterns such as a birdsnest nymph. Here is a link I found online which has a short video of the technique (https://www.troutflies.com/tutorials/nest/01.shtml). I am able to actually do the wrap very well at times, but others it takes me "forever" to get it right. If anyone has any tips or suggestions on how I can make this technique "second nature" I would really appreciate hearing them. Thanks.

Dave

[FT]

Practice, pratice, practice. I say this because you mentioned you get it right sometimes and other times it takes forever to get it right. The more you do it, the easier it becomes, until eventually, it becomes second nature. I wish there were an easier way for it to become second nature; but alas, there isn't. It is a lot like fly casting, you have to practice it to get good and then you wonder why it was so hard when you started.

[dbk]

Thanks FT. Maybe you can answer one specific question for me. How important is the positioning of the feather (in respect to how you hold it up against the body of the fly just prior to making the distribution wrap)? I am trying to see what it is that allows me to make a good wrap as opposed to struggling to get the feather evenly distributed. It is easier for me to get it right when doing the wrap on a regular nymph hook as opposed to a scud/pupa hook. Thanks again.

[FT]

I find it easiest if I initially place the feather against the hook on my side of the hook because it allows me to see how it is going with the initial or beginning of the wrap; however, it really makes no difference what side the feather is placed on. After you tie a few hundred, the wrap will be second nature and you'll find yourself wondering why you ever thought it was difficult.

[Philster]

Well, your problem may be using the fibers still attached to the feather. I've been tying Bird's Nests for as long as I can remember, and I've always cut the fibers away from the feater. Then, it's just like deer hair. plus, if it isn't the way you like it, it's easy to redistribute with your thumbnail. Give it a try.