Tie a Simple
KnotThe lapping is the thread which is wrapped around the tenon to make a seal with the socket. After a while, this thread may wear out and need to be replaced. Here are illustrated instructions. The photographs were made with a large tube and clothesline to show the detail of how the thread is tied. On your kaval, of course, you will use much smaller thread.
Thread
I recommend you use embroidery floss. Size 30 works well. It should be all
cotton. Get it at a fabric store.
Wax
After applying the thread, you will wax it. I recommend pure bee's wax. It
is available in many hardware stores, candle shops, and furniture refinishing
stores.
Removing the Old Lapping
Remove the old lapping by carefully cutting a few threads with a sharp
knife, and unwrapping it.
Tie a Simple Knot
First, tie a simple overhand knot around the kaval. Leave one end about 25
cm long (10 inches) so you can make the loop and pull it all together to finish.
If your kaval has a small channel that holds the thread, start in this channel.
If your kaval has several grooves cut in the tenon, start in the topmost groove.
Tie a Simple
Knot
Make a Big Loop
Make a loop in the thread. The loop should be long enough to go past the end
of the tenon and come back, with plenty left over so you can get a good grip on
it with your fingers later, when we pull the knot together.
Make a Big Loop
Wrap Layers of Thread
Wrap thread from the ball or spool around the tenon and the loop. Start
working towards the tenon end. You can make additional layers by wrapping back
and forth. They don't have to be perfectly even, but smoother is better. You can
test to see if you have enough by carefully folding the loop into the inside of
the kaval, and putting the kaval together just a little ways. It shouldn't be
too tight, but too loose doesn't do the job, either.
Wrap Layers of
Thread
Put the Thread Through the Loop
When you have enough thickness of thread, you can cut the thread off the
ball. Leave at least 25 cm of thread so you can finish tying it. Put the new end
of thread through the loop.
Thread Through
the Loop
Pull the New End Under
Pull on the old free end to pull the new end under the layers of thread. Do
this carefully. It helps to be pulling gently on the new end while it goes
under.
Pulling the New
End Under
Trim the Ends
Carefully cut the new ends close to the wrapped section. It's OK to have a
small length of thread; you can just smooth it down into the rest and cover it
with wax.
Trimming
Apply Wax
Rub bee's wax liberally all over the thread and work it in with your
fingers. This should make a smooth gasket.
If the Fit Isn't Right
If you have too little lapping, you can add another complete layer. Just
start at the beginning and tie a knot on top of the old lapping, and follow the
procedure. If you have too much, it is sometimes easier to start over. Measure
how much thread you used, and keep that in mind as a guide for the next attempt.
Questions?
If you have questions, . Good luck!