Bassoon Reed Wrapping Methods Compared

Nylon is a synthetic fiber which was first developed in the United States during the 1930’s, and was first used to create fabric in 1940. Today it is used in a variety of textiles (sometimes blended with other fibers) including thread. Nylon was designed to be durable with more elasticity than cotton thread. We currently stock four brands of nylon thread in two different thicknesses: FF (the standard size, suitable for both oboe and bassoon reeds) and #2 (slightly thicker than FF, only suitable for bassoon reeds). Both thread sizes come in a variety of colors!

Cotton thread is made from 100% cotton fibers. The #10 thickness is commonly used for crochet projects, but is also great for wrapping bassoon reeds. Cotton thread is strong, but has less elasticity than nylon. It is also more absorbent than nylon- glue or beeswax will soak into the cotton fibers. We carry Omega brand cotton thread in 11 colors!

Hot Glue is made from a special type of plastic, usually sold as cylindrical sticks. It is often used for arts and crafts projects and is applied using a hot glue gun (sold separately). The glue becomes very sticky when heated (often hot enough to burn skin), but cools and resolidifies quickly. Sealing reeds with hot glue is quicker than traditional thread wrapping, but caution is advised to avoid injury, especially with younger students. Hot glue comes in a variety of solid and glitter colors. 

Heat shrink tubing is made from plastic, and was originally used to protect electrical wires. It is designed to shrink in diameter when heated, resulting in an airtight seal. Each heat shrink tube can easily be cut to the correct length to fit over the tube of a reed. Comes in twelve colors.

The Riger Plastic Tube Sleeve is made from hard plastic designed to look like a traditional thread wrap. It is placed over the tube of a reed (secured using Duco Cement) for a quick and easy way to seal bassoon reeds. Note that the bottom wire should be removed before applying the Tube Sleeve. Comes in black. 

Duco cement is one of the most common options for sealing reeds. Many reedmakers use duco cement because it dries quickly (dry to the touch in about five minutes, completely set in sixteen hours), and creates a strong, water resistant coating. Duco can be used alone or over thread- it dries completely clear which is ideal for those looking to customize the color of their reeds.

Beeswax is a natural wax made by honey bees. It is collected by bee keepers as part of the honey harvesting process (which does not harm the bees). The wax is then filtered to remove any impurities before being used to make candles, cosmetics, other household items- and for wrapping bassoon reeds. Beeswax smells slightly like honey, and is a great alternative to duco cement. Note that melted beeswax will soak into cotton thread, creating an airtight seal. However, it is best applied to nylon thread before wrapping.

Clear nail polish is another alternative for sealing reeds.The brush applicator makes it easy to apply straight to the tube of a reed or over thread. It does create an airtight seal, but may not have as strong of a hold as duco cement. The nail polish we carry dries clear and is ready to use within a few minutes.