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types of linen thread

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stuckinthemud:
Afternoon everyone!
This is an expansion of a thread I posted on the main bows section.  In a nutshell, what types of linen/hemp/other natural threads, have you experience of, how do you rate them, and, can anyone explain the differences - like is Somac thread different from Barbour in any way other than manufacturing name?  Waxed or unwaxed? Coloured thread or plain white or natural finish?
Anyone else used Wenzel-type thread - sewing linen on a 10m or 15m card. Is plaiting thread the same stuff as Wenzel thread? Can you buy sewing linen on cops (reels) or only on cards?
I have a little experience of Barbour 18/4 and Wenzel,  I like both and suspect the Wenzel is superior but then it is double the price, however, I do not feel I have enough experience to make a proper judgement on this
Thanks

JNystrom:
You can test the strength of your thread. Make a simple pull test with scale. Make sure to wrap the thread around something so that it doesn't make a weak spot. Then the other end in to the scale. Then just pull untl it breaks and note the number on the scale. Repeat it some times to get accurate.
I think the rating is this "tex" value? Like strength divided with weight of the thread. Or vise versa.

I've only used the strongest barbour line we found. It makes good 150 grain strings for 30-80 pound bows. Flight shooters sure would like to have stronger material. Me included. :)

Hawkdancer:
I'm not familiar with thread numbers anymore, so please enlighten me(us).  I have read somewhere , maybe here, that the Irish linen shoemaker's thread is very good for bow strings, but don't know where to get it.  Right know, I use B50 and Fast Flight when I do make a string.  What does 18/4 mean, and is it an industry standard rating?  Thanks, this is a learn something new day! 
Hawkdancer

stuckinthemud:
I believe, but could be wrong, that the Wenzel is the shoemaker's thread. I should have an old bowstring in the garage made from it, haven't found it yet though
,

Black Moshannon:
I'm using Coats (Barbour) thread which is listed as 5 cord. It broke at around 23 pounds. Works great so far. Its expensive though.

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