Kindale Fly Tying Varnish and Thinners

# **How to Choose Kindale Fly Tying Varnish and Thinners**

As an avid fly fisherman, you know that the quality of your flies can make or break your success on the water. One of the most critical components in fly tying is the varnish—it protects your flies, enhances durability, and ensures they hold up against aggressive strikes. **Kindale Fly Tying Varnish** is a top-tier choice among anglers, but selecting the right type and matching thinner can be a bit overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make the best decision for your fly-tying needs.

## **Understanding Kindale Fly Tying Varnish**

Kindale offers a range of varnishes designed for different applications, each with unique properties that affect drying time, flexibility, and finish. Here are the main types you’ll encounter:

### **1. Head Cement (Fast-Drying Varnish)**
– **Best for:** Securing thread wraps, reinforcing fly heads, and quick repairs.
– **Features:** Dries rapidly, forms a hard protective layer, and resists water penetration.
– **Ideal for:** Small flies like midges, nymphs, and dry flies where a fast turnaround is needed.

### **2. Flexible Varnish (Slow-Drying, High Elasticity)**
– **Best for:** Streamers, saltwater flies, and patterns requiring movement.
– **Features:** Stays slightly flexible, preventing cracks when the fly is compressed by fish strikes.
– **Ideal for:** Large flies like Clousers, Deceivers, and articulated patterns.

### **3. UV-Cured Varnish**
– **Best for:** Anglers who want instant curing with a UV light.
– **Features:** Hardens in seconds under UV light, provides a glossy finish, and is highly durable.
– **Ideal for:** Competitive tiers or those who need quick production without waiting for drying time.

## **Choosing the Right Thinner**

Kindale varnishes are typically solvent-based, meaning they can thicken over time. Using the correct thinner ensures smooth application and extends the product’s shelf life. Here’s what to consider:

### **1. Water-Based Thinners**
– **Best for:** Eco-conscious anglers or those working in enclosed spaces.
– **Pros:** Low odor, easy cleanup, and safer for indoor use.
– **Cons:** May not work as effectively with all varnish types.

### **2. Solvent-Based Thinners (Acetone or Denatured Alcohol)**
– **Best for:** Restoring thickened varnish for optimal viscosity.
– **Pros:** Highly effective, ensures smooth application, and evaporates quickly.
– **Cons:** Strong fumes—best used in well-ventilated areas.

### **3. Kindale Brand-Specific Thinners**
– **Best for:** Ensuring compatibility and avoiding chemical reactions.
– **Pros:** Formulated specifically for Kindale varnishes, minimizing risk of separation or poor adhesion.
– **Cons:** Slightly more expensive than generic options.

## **Application Tips for Best Results**

1. **Thin Gradually:** Add thinner in small increments to avoid over-diluting.
2. **Use a Quality Brush:** A fine-tipped brush ensures precise application without clumping.
3. **Rotate While Drying:** If using slow-drying varnish, rotate the fly to prevent pooling.
4. **Store Properly:** Keep varnish bottles tightly sealed and away from extreme temperatures.

## **Final Thoughts**

Choosing the right **Kindale Fly Tying Varnish and Thinner** depends on your fly patterns, tying speed, and environmental preferences. Fast-drying head cement is excellent for small flies, while flexible varnish suits larger, more dynamic patterns. UV-cured options provide unmatched convenience for quick fixes. Pairing your varnish with the correct thinner ensures longevity and smooth application.

By understanding these factors, you can enhance your fly durability and fishing success. **KyleBooker** recommends keeping multiple varnish types in your tying kit to handle any situation on the water.

Happy tying, and tight lines! 🎣