Extended Bodies - Chenille - Palomino Style
This is another quick and easy extended body. Illustrated is a version for the Palomino Midge. Omit stages 2 through 6 for a simple tapered body. You may not even want a tapered effect, in which case, just cut off a piece of ultra chenille or venille and you're ready to go! If you go for no singe or taper, unless you feel the material sufficiently robust, just dab a drop of Dave's Flexament at the loose end of the body for the sake of durability.
 | 1. Firstly you need to cut a suitable length of ultra chenille or venille, at least a few inches. If you prefer, work the loose end straight off the card or skein. |
 | 2. While gripping the chenille in one hand, pinch the last 3 or 4 mm of the chenille between index finger and thumbnail. Pull away with index finger and thumbnail stripping fibers from the core. |
 | 3. These types of chenille are quite tough so this may take several attempts. |
 | 4. If you find this too difficult, lay the chenille aginst a tough flat surface and hold in down by the last 3-4mm with a good metal edge. I use a 'disarmed' blade, but a keen edged steel rule will work. |
 | 5. Pull the chenille away from the metal edge, being careful not to exert too much pressure with the metal edge so as to avoid severing the core. |
 | 6. Using either method, you should end up with something like this. Now moisten the exposed core. |
 | 7. Play the chenille over a gentle flame. |
 | 8. It may help develop the required taper, to roll the singed chenille between index finger and thumb. |
 | 9. After a little practice you should end up with something like this. |
 | 10. Use in dressing the Palomino Midge. |
Warning: When singeing materials with a flame, observe sensible fire precautions. Be careful not to burn yourself with the flame or set light to a table full of feathers! If you use a cigarette lighter as illustrated, remember, the wick or nozzle guard can easily overheat if the flame is maintained for too long.