Starting the Thread on the hook shank

For those just starting out - this is the beginning of it all. Although it is not hard to learn - by practicing this several times - it helps you learn thread control and how to maintain the correct tension on the bobbin. What I like to do is tell people to start with 3/0 thread which is what is shown here. Start the thread and wrap several times over. Then switch to 8/0 thread, then if you have it - switch to 14/0 thread. By doing this - it teaches you how to maintain the correct tension without breaking the thread. When you got the thread tied it - also try speeding up the thread wrapping, then slow it down and be more precise. Wrap the entire hook and back over again. It may seem really basic but learning control and correct tension will help out later on.
 
1. Start the thread by laying it across the top of the hook with the tag end (the end opposite the bobbin) at an angle away from the hook eye.
 

 
2. Take one wrap around the shank towards the eye.
 

 
3. Then start wrapping the thread to the rear of the hook shank - all the while keeping tension on the tag end. This will cover and lock in the tag end of the thread.
 

 
4. Trim off the tag end of the thread and continue wrapping towards the bend. When you trim off the tag end - pull some tension on it which will help you to be able to trim it trim close to the hook shank.
 

 
5. Continue to wrap to the rear - covering the trimmed tag end.
 

 
 
 
Note: On many threads you can open up the thread by spinning the bobbin counterclockwise - creating a flatter wrap. Spin it clockwise and it will tighten up the thread material as shown:
 
 
The thread when spun clockwise -
 

 
The thread when spun counterclockwise (shown in step 2):