EdH

One of the most important tools to use in building or pouring baits is patience. I'm slow at learning this but it seems every time I get in a hurry or can't wait for the appropriate amount of time, a problem or fail shows up. Also ditto what Jig Man says. Tons of info, tips and approaches to POP molds. Find one that suits what YOU want to do and take your time figuring out what works for you.

Have you tried to google 'Chevron Wrap layout'? Also try you tube. Lots of info out there.

Look on the epoxy packaging. It should say if the cured finish is clear or amber. One brand is Devcon 2-ton. Most epoxy packaging say. If it doesn't I don't buy it.

Like!

What you have so far beats the notched cardboard box I used the the first time. Put some soft material like felt in the notches and start wrapping. I like the extension you put on there. It will help keep control of the rod. What do you have in mind for holding the spool(s) and thread tension. For some ideas google on the internet 'rod wrapper photos'

Just scroll to the top of this page and put "rod wrapper" in the search box. You will find links and info.

Before buying epoxy at the store carefully read the whole package. Most brands like Devcon will state the cure time, whether the cured epoxy changes color (cures to amber or yellow) and whether it will cure water resistant or water PROOF.

Ouch! Hope you weren't wearing cutoffs.

Man those are super realistic!

Paxamus - you got it nailed down! Awesome jigs. and thanks for sharin the how to.

Use the search function on this forum- try "painted reels"

Thanks for posting the pic. It makes it easier to offer solutions. One - I see you stirring the epoxy using a brush. Bad idea as the bristles introduce bubble. Just use the other end of the brush or get a solid swizzle stirrer (not hollow). Something solid and stir slowly. Like Jim says pour the epoxy on something flat to let the epoxy spread out into a thin layer. I use aluminum foil and make 3" x 3" boats (fold the edges up to make a small pan so the epoxy doesn't run off onto the table). I also have use some of those foil muffin pan liners. If I see bubble on the foil I just use a soda straw from a fountain drink and blow through it to bust the bubbles. Hope these tips help.

It was Tom Reddington. He pulled the video from youtube. I suspect he got a letter from a lawyer since he did say "Alabama Rig". The Mann Bait company bought the rights to make the rig. Doesn't really matter too much just search the internet as there many ways people are making a variation of this rig. Tom showed using surveyors flag wire, worm weight and some crimps plus some swivels. Its not too hard to do. Just think about it an then go out an see if you can find the supplies and tools to make one. Or just wait as there will be china knockooffs coming out soon at your local big box stores.

Same way that flat flags ripple/flap when the wind blows. Don't worry about the science. A baits action will depend on the shape and how it is put together. Mostly will involve experimenting. So don't worry and go for it. Just realize it usually involves trial and error. Sometimes more, sometimes less.

Check out Bassmasters web site. There is a new posting on how to make one. There is a guide and pro fisherman that shows how to make one. Not pretty but he claims it still works.

For those interested in this technique just google search on the internet: How to crackle paint with elmers glue. All kinds of advice on this technique. Fishwhittle - those baits look great!!

Big M - you've got em nailed down! I like the simple clean look you do. And the finish is top notch too. Thanks for sharing the pics. Gives me something to strive for as I start out makin cranks.

Ben -Thanks for sharing some of your tips and techniques. I'm just starting out doing some PVC cranks and these will help with my learning curve. Been looking as some of your work and their top notch. You've become one of the masters of pvc bait creation!

Nice paint work and finish! I'm just starting with some pvc cranks and these are some great inspirations.

Check out Home Depot or Lowe's if they are in your area. I just found some PCV Case trim in the wood trim/molding department. 1'' Thick and some other trim work that is thinner. It used for rot free trim work but sections can be cut down to minimize shaping. I used a band saw to rough cut outline. Haven't shaped the pieces yet but was planning on using a micro plane cylindrical in a drill press. If that doesn't work I'll use knifes and rasps.