Lacing cable bundles.

[mdshunk]

Does anyone have any experience lacing cable bundles with waxed string; the way that it used to be done before zip ties and spiral wrap loom came into common use? I would like to add this to my skill set, since I think it looks really nice when properly done. I have looked in old texts, searched the net and asked a few old timers. I can't find anything. I've tried to reproduce this myself, but my bundles look sloppy, uneven and loose. Does anyone have a good source for this info (web link, good explanation, pictures, etc.)? I have seen special lacing tools for sale on eBay that look interesting, but I wouldn't know what the heck to do with them. It's always neat to learn how the dead tradesmen before me used to do things! Thanks...

[Jacksnap]

MD;

Here is a link to the people that make telecom spec lacing cord.
http://www.dearborn-cdt.com/
Maybe contacting them, they can steer you to some information on how to use it. I think the stringing process was called 'whip-stitch'. One of the problems with it was it would cut into the wire insulation many times and it also was difficult to keep it 'tight' looking. It truly was a craft. I limit the use of it, now-a-days, to dental flossing :D
Good luck. Jack

[mdshunk]

Thanks for that link. They pointed me to this NASA document (http://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/codeq/87394-9.pdf), which outlines the procedure in how-to form.

[jdcableguy]

another option is to use a small piece of wood with holes drilled vertically and horizontally. Place one wire in each and pull the block through your bundle. This will give you a perfectly uniform bundle for your wires. You can then tie wrap then or whatever you wish.