A thread-tensioning device can be a fabricated tool or something as simple as a large book. The device shown here adds tension to the thread as I screw down the wing nut and compress the spring. You can achieve the same result at home by running the thread through a phone book. The more pages you have on top of the thread, the more tension you will create, so try to find something big such as a phone book or dictionary. Do NOT use an old book with yellowing pages as the acid in the paper will be distributed to the thread.

Professional rod builders use a mechanical rod turner that rotates freshly-finished rods while the epoxy on the wraps cures. If you leave your rod in one position to dry, the liquid will gravitate toward the bottom of the rod, and you will be left with an ugly mess. At home, you can do something as simple as cut two notches in a cardboard box, and rotate the rod manually until the finish sets.

The materials here are a Sage 590-4RPL+ with REC Components.

One more critical thing to remember is that your components must fit the rod you wish to build. Consult the guide size/spacing chart to get the right snake guides for your rod. If you want a winding check (the small metal ring that sits in front of the grip), its inner circumference must be exactly the same as the outer circumference of the rod--at the point where it will sit.

If you buy your components from an expert rod builder, he may be able to tell you that a Sage 590-4RPL+ with an REC NSUS reel seat and western style grip will require a size 24/64" winding check. What most people have to do is put the grip and reel seat together, measure their combined length, and then use calipers to measure the rod circumference at that distance from the butt.

A custom vendor may be able to provide a grip and reel seat bored to match the blank of your choice. In most cases, however, you will either have to use a tapered reamer (or round file) to enlarge the hole, or build up the blank with masking tape to make the components fit your blank.

All the materials and components you see on the checklist can be purchased at your local flyshop or hardware store.