Zephr Bobbin Cradle

Description

The Zephr Bobbin Cradle, often called a Bobbin Rest, stabilizes the bobbin for rotary vises. It prevents the thread from wrapping the shank during rotation. It also keeps palmering hackle or ribbing wire in place. Without a cradle, the tying thread can bind and distort the wrap around the hook shank.

How to Use a Bobbin Cradle Step-by-Step

1. Set the Alignment: Mount the cradle onto your vise stem. Adjust its height and length so that the cradle’s head sits directly in line with and level to the hook shank.
2. Secure Your Progress: Before moving your bobbin to the cradle, throw one or two half-hitches (or a quick whip finish) onto the fly. This prevents the thread from unraveling or shifting backward along the hook eye while under sideways tension.
3. Drape and Store: Extend enough thread from your bobbin so it can comfortably reach the cradle. Swing the cradle arm forward and rest either the thread or the bobbin tip into the cradle’s groove.
4. Rotate and Wrap: Use both hands to wrap your hackle, wire, or dubbing loops. The vise will rotate cleanly without tangling the tying thread.
5. Return to Normal: Once finished wrapping, bring your material to the front, pull the bobbin off the cradle, swing the arm out of the way, and tie off your material.