Need tips

[Vega]

Ok guys, how on earth do you all string things on rope and/or sisal when the ends are a bit frayed? When I tried using pieces with holes large enough to go right over the rope ends...I then have problems securing them. I either have to tie numerous knots at the end or use another wood/plastic piece to stop everything from falling off.


Are the small metal circles ok for using at the end? I'm always paranoid about them getting a foot stuck.

What about long strands of leather with just a few items tied to it? Again, I'm concerned about them getting stuck--tangling around their neck or something.

I just need some tips.

Gosh I feel like a brand new parront.

[stepht25]

When I'm using any sisal, cotton or even paulie rope and have trouble getting the ends through because they start to fray I take just a bit of tape and wrap it tightly around the end of the rope. Keeps the end from fraying and keeps it nice and tight and easy to get through the holes, then you can just take it off when you're done. If I'm making a toy for one of my fids that likes to undo knots, I tend to put a lot of knots in the toy. So depending on what I'm making I might make a knot after every toy piece or every 2 -3. I also use somthing indestructable (or close to it) like a marbella bead that has a smaller hole and put on after every few of the larger toy pieces and then knot after that. I will also use a marbella bead or something like it at the end of a toy to finish it off and make it easier to end the toy with a knot. (anything of a harder material not so easy to chew up and with a smaller hole works well) I have used 0 - rings to end a toy and have never had a problem with anyone getting a foot stuck. The size I use are large enough for anyone to put a foot freely through (though I've never seen anyone do it) but not large enough for them to even think about putting their head through. I never leave any strings long enough where someone might get tangled around their neck. I do leave shorter strands for preening though. If I'm using leather and need to make a knot I wet the knot after I've made it - makes the leather swell some making the knot tighter and also makes it a little harder for that birdy that likes to undo them! You can use leather to string your parts on to make a toy - just choose an appropriate length for the bird you're making it for. HTH!

[summerfan]

Yup, that's what I do. Tightly tape one end and it makes like a needle, goes right in :)

[Vega]

AHhhh didn't think of that!