由 Brian Townsend It sounds like you’re looking for vintage silk thread in size 00 or A, color Purple 8, specifically for wrapping bamboo fly rods. Here’s some helpful information to guide your search:
1. Understanding Silk Thread Sizes for Fly Rods
– Size 00 (or “A”): This is a very fine silk thread traditionally used for delicate wraps on bamboo rods. It’s slightly thicker than size A (which is the finest), but both are suitable for classic rod building.
– Color 8: Likely refers to an older numbering system for purple shades. Vintage threads often used numeric color codes (e.g., Gudebrod, Pearsall’s, or Belding Corticelli).
2. Where to Find Vintage Silk Thread
– eBay/Etsy: Search for terms like “vintage silk fly rod thread,” “Gudebrod size 00 purple,” or “Pearsall’s gossamer 8 purple.”
– Classic Rod Building Forums: Check forums like [The Classic Fly Rod Forum](http://classicflyrodforum.com) or [Bamboo Rodmaking](http://bamboorodmaking.com) for sellers/trades.
– Specialty Shops: Try rod restoration suppliers like:
– [Proof Fly Fishing](https://proofflyfishing.com) (sometimes carries vintage stock)
– [J. Stockard](https://www.jsflyfishing.com) (may have modern alternatives)
– Auction Sites: Look for estate sales or vintage tackle auctions (e.g., Lang’s Auctions).
3. Modern Alternatives
– Pearsall’s Gossamer Silk (still available in some colors) – Size A is close to 00.
– YLI Silk 100 or Kimono Silk (craft stores) – May require color matching.
– Belding Corticelli (discontinued but occasionally found NOS).
4. Tips for Authentic Restoration
– Test the thread with color-preserving varnish (e.g., aliphatic urethane) to prevent fading.
– If exact color 8 is unavailable, consider dyeing white silk with Rit DyeMore (Purple).
Would you like help identifying a specific brand or era for your thread? If you share a photo or label details, I can narrow it down further!