Replace your hemp with POLYESTER THREAD! By Matt Willis Bagpiper

[@ashgall8118]

I don't care how long your videos are. They give fantastic information. I've been playing for 61 years and always been a traditionalist, but now I'm trying some of your tips. My life has been changed. lol.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Wow! Which tip has had the biggest impact?

[@Korgerja06]

I have to say I spent a good part of 2 hours using this method to redo my pipes. Being a wet blower I was willing to try anything. After 3 parades and 2 long days of playing, everything stayed the same. And my blow pipe and chanter came out as easy as it went in. No swelling what so ever! I'm so glad I came across your video!

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Thank you for sharing your results! Glad it’s working so well for you!

[@Korgerja06]

@@TechnicalSika Yes I am. Even in temperature fluctuations it stays true. No swelling or contracting.

[@Korgerja06]

@@TechnicalSika Yes. That fills in any imperfections between the thread to complete the seal.

[@Korgerja06]

@@TechnicalSika I honestly don't know what wood mine are made from. My first Instructor had ordered them for me 15 years ago. But I can say the wood has not been damaged in any way.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

All of my pipes are Blackwood and I don’t see how the polyester thread could damage the pipes/wood.

[@JohnScott76]

I've never considered polyester thread before, but now that you've mentioned it I can't think of any reason why it would cause any harm! Thanks for the tip, I'm going to pick some up this weekend and will give it a go!

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Excellent! Just remember to put on more than one strand/roll at a time and make sure to tie a half-hitch when done to keep it from unfurling.

[@plumbology.hydronicheating1286]

Just watching this for the first time, I have been piping since the late 80s with a small 17 yr break. I find that I am reluctant to try this at least at first, then I remember changing all my hemp to waxed dental floss and had zero issue's and went back to Hemp for no apparent reason. so yes I am going to try it and thanks for sharing as always.

[@garyd1585]

As a lapsed novice piper trying to find motivation to restart, i am enjoying your videos. Thanks

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Glad you found the channel! I've got around 200 videos up at the moment and I'm not about to stop. And this video is an oldie, but I very much stand by everything I say in it.

[@garyd1585]

Yes I’m running through plenty of your videos and there’s some really interesting and great content. I look forward to seeing more and kicking myself up the backside to practice practice practice 👍🏻😁🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@cordellnelson5932]

Thanx for doing the video Matt. I'm kind of a sloppy blower (read wet or drool ) and an older learning player, started after age 40. Our band is grade 4B, but our PM is grade 1/2 and put me on to this for a trial. I'll comment again once I have an opinion from prolonged use , but this is good info and and lots of tips like different color thread-strands on the middle drone and beeswax verses other wax (cobbler); all good stuff. In our band, we're all playing natural bags (sheep/goatskin) in prep for competing at worlds this year and my feedback is something the rest will look at. Our climate is cold & dry (NW Canada) so for me personally, the hemping on tenons and the dry/moist thing is huge. Thanx again from all of us.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

You're welcome! I'm now going well over a year and still love the polyester thread. I don't suspect I'll be going back to hemp/linen!

[@stewartkeith1544]

Thanks for that informative video, Matt. I would add that you can buy large cones of polyester thread sold for serger or overlock machines for a very reasonable cost in every color of the rainbow in place of the small spools in your video.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Good to know! I like the small spools because they fit easily in a pipe case. But for larger projects (full bagpipe re-threading) larger spools would be great!

[@robgarriock]

Super helpful. I used some waxed polyester thread on all the joints on my small pipes. The waxed thread is used for hand stitching leather so you can get lots of colours and thicknesses (0.4 up to 1.0mm).

[@sinocaig]

Hey Matt. Thanks for this info I'll be getting some for sure....I also recommend the sponge for the practice chanter by pipers choice. Helps with moisture and let's me play longer.

[@igorGriffiths]

Thanks have done both my pipes and PC and no issues with seizing joints after a long wet blow session. Only issue I found was securing the end, watched video again to figure the knot you recommended

[@Ordinaryfiveeight]

Hi Matt, Excellent tip. Doing all my sets in polyester thread for the same reasons.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Thanks! I’m doing an experiment with one joint with polyester, one with real hemp, and one yellow linen “hemp” and will report back with a video in January with my thoughts of each compared.

[@Ordinaryfiveeight]

Excellent Matt. I'm really hoping your tip will be the best option for my delrin sets as they give the most trouble when dried out. The lapping tends to run round on the pins and is a real task to release without possible damage. Wooden sets all the more if that were to happen there also. This was the main turn off for me in respect of the delrin sets as otherwise they are so suitable for inclement weather.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Let me think on what I feel is best for delrin/polypenco....

[@Ordinaryfiveeight]

Thanks... Appreciate it

[@LesliePiper]

I'm experimenting the change first with my Practice Chanters and I'm very pleased But my big surprise was when I changed the hemp in my Shepherd chanter which has very little margin in the Stock of my Kintails. I couldn't use much hemp and so the seal isn't perfect...but with Polyester instant improvement. But probably the biggest contribution is the method of applying the string/hemp in thirds instead of all at one time. I'm getting a lot out of your videos, Thanks, again.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Great to hear! Let your piping friends know about the video and method. Cheers!

[@wavemotionpilot6035]

I was never a fan of any type of hemp, as I’ve noticed that over a very short amount of time, the hemp degrades. Especially when you take joints off and back in as you tune the drones. I’ve used waxed hemp as it seals better. However; I will now shift to polyester thread and give it a try! Great vid and a lot of positive comments.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Let us know how it goes for you. And more importantly, what color! 😉

[@traildogisla]

Came back to comment after watching a few weeks ago, Did my practice chanter (in a nice green thread) with some Cork grease, and really happy with it. Will look to do the same on my pipes in time, starting with blow pipe and chanter, definitely will be colour coding parts and reeds too

[@bluefuseanims]

You just saved a young pipers life bro

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

There seems to be a larger story here... But glad to hear!

[@michelnahasfilho2973]

Interesting note: I am in Brazil, so no laws allowing cannabis (= Hemp, for Brazil's customs). I ordered hemp for my bagpipes, and the Brazilian post returned to the seller the whole purchase (over 200 USD) cost me the $75.00 shipping costs. I bought again, and shipped to my sister who was visiting NYC, and... my nephew (a lawyer) made her throw the hemp in the hotel's trash can. In Brazil we don't have a great temperature variation, going between 50 and 85 degrees, where I live. As a former bassoonist (yes, I use my skills to ease my chanter reeds), I can't understand why pipers do not adopt cork, on the joints. Anyway, I watched this and other Matt's videos (my contribution is coming, LoL), and I will try polyester, for lack of options. The worst part of this story, is that I don't even believe that the BGPP Hemp is REAL hemp, after seeing Matt's "real hemp" (the white one) video.

[@igorGriffiths]

Thanks have done both my pipes and PC and no issues with seizing joints after a long wet blow session. Only issue I found was securing the end, watched video again to figure out the knot you recommended

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

I use a double half-hitch as the closing knot if you wanted to look that up

[@stevec1141]

I have a set of 60's vintage Hardie's that was recently gifted to me..these old pipes have very narrow/shallow reed seats and I have been fighting with them trying to fit the new Kinnaird Bass and canning tenors...an experiment on it own... I used your technique and as an extra measure, touched up the threads with some bees wax and they now fit solid in the seat...and oh boy!!, do they sound great!!! Thank you for this great tip...

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

That's great to hear! You should record a clip of you playing them and share it here!

[@stevec1141]

@@MattWillisBagpiper Great idea...but.....I have just started transitioning to the pipes, hence the gift, not quite holding tone on all the drones quite yet..but getting close....your videos have been of invaluable assistance, must say top knotch...thanks for that...so... soon as I have a semblance of competence I will be happy to share...

[@SeamusMcNeil]

What an excellent idea. Thank yo so much for explaining it all in detail. I will be giving this a go myself. Cheers Jim

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

I've been experimenting with other string options since this video, but I will be going back to all polyester thread when I'm done.

[@oliverseeler1018]

Hi Matt, Thanks for this excellent information (and the excellent presentation). We at the Universe of Bagpipes are going to recommend your video to our customers, and I'm considering substituting a roll of the poly thread with every set we sell instead of the "traditional" so-called hemp, which to add to the rest of its issues has become increasingly expensive and at times hard to get in some markets. By the way, feeding from three spools is great, but it's not so hard to make up a long batch of three strands from a single spool. Oh, and my wife, a former veterinary assistant, insists that I add a caution here about leaving any bits of thread where cats can find them, as that can have a bad ending (might be a tune title in there somewhere, LOL.)

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Thank you for sharing that! It's exciting to think my video here could end up helping so many folks. And also, good info on keeping the thread away from kitties...

[@oliverseeler1018]

@@MattWillisBagpiper To add a little more exotica, I was alerted to your video by a new customer, in (drum roll..) Japan! Not an expat Brit or such, but a rare native Japanese musician seriously keen on learning the GHB right, and who just purchased a customized Delrin Dunbar from us, and who has done a massive amount of on-line research. Small world ... this is how it's supposed to work! I will mention one thing, just for the record: I think this is probably a non-issue most if not all of the time, but polyester (and many other synthetics) are somewhat abrasive. I think this would only be an issue to even think about on a wooden heirloom pipe that is in heavy service and has the wrapping left "dry" (unlubricated/unwaxed). Not a likely combination, but mentioned I said, just for the record....

[@WootTootZoot]

@@MattWillisBagpiper It's really sad to know that Oliver passed away a few weeks after he posted this.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Oh my... I didn’t know. 😞

[@kenthomson6528]

Interesting well done Matt will give it a go

[@pipermac]

Interesting; thanks for posting...about the toilet wax ring...can you link what you use for this...and if it is a ring how do refill your little jar with that material? Thanks.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

As for how to refill it, I just use my fingers and pull it from the ring and squish it into the container. Messy, but it works. Here's a link: www.homedepot.com/p/Fluidmaster-Wax-Toilet-Bowl-Gasket-7510/203763996

[@pipermac]

Thanks, Matt..appreciate it.

[@raysmith7502]

Hi Matt, Wolfie from the CITY OF SWANSEA PIPE BAND UK. Been using the Polyestes thread for some time now, basically I refurbish the pipes for our members if they want it done. I noted that you are using 3 spools, in the uk I get the much thicker thread which means I only need one spool which I run through Beeswax. I was put on to Polyester from a friend , however it tended to unravle and make a birds nest, single strand as thick as the old hemp does not do this, and the cost is reduced. The results are good and. Thought I'd drop this comment in as a suggestion.

[@n9sferatu261]

I might try this when the hemp on my McCallum choose wears down

[@ashgall8118]

I love your videos. fantastic tips and great demonstrations. Subscribed and Bell rung.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Many thanks! Glad you're enjoying the channel!

[@julianpayne5306]

Fantastic sdvice re use of polyester thread instead of hemp. Thank you. I will try it on my 1890 vintage p Hdnderson. Julian Payne/Manila

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jadesidhe2634]

If you go to a crafting store like Joanna's or Michael's the apolstery threads come in larger thicknesses

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

I found thicker thread with marvels more readily for some reason. More strands of thinner thread seems to work best.

[@brianbaldwin6476]

This video was very informative, as all your videos are, and got me thinking about at least replacing the hemp on my practice chanter. I did replace it, but it was my first experience with cobbler's wax- the Black Jack of the pipe band world as far as I'm concerned now having dealt with it. I had to cook it in a dish in the microwave, and even though it got soft enough, and worked, it was messy. Would you be willing to recommend a brand or source for the cobbler's wax? Plus after an extended practice session after the "re-hemp", the pc came after just beautifully.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

I get mine through The Piper's Hut... But I've never heard of anyone having to heat it in a microwave. I just hold it in my hand for 30-45 seconds to make it soft enough to readily pass the string through...

[@aikidragonpiper71]

I’ve been griped at for using plumbers tape in a pinch before. But only when I was out of hemp. I might try the polyester thread, since bagpipe accessory I need I have to order online a wait 2 weeks. It’d be nice to just get something down at Walmart the same day.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

I too love being able to simply "go to the store" to buy string rather than always having to go through a bagpipe supplier. Now to figure out my own pipe bag seasoning recipe so I don't have to order that stuff!

[@aikidragonpiper71]

Matt Willis Bagpiper I just recently got a Canmore Hybrid zipper pipe bag . Nice but $200 . But anything I can make myself or get a cheaper alternative I try it. I wish I could make my own reeds but that’s tricky. I constantly have reed problems. Bass drone constantly sticks closed ,back n forth adjustments to the bridal . I put a stronger chanter reed and all the drones just close off. Probably just need new reeds . Carbon tongue reeds have doubled in price. I’ve never been able to get cane drone reeds to work.

[@haroldcannon5618]

Might I ask who makes your practice chanter?

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Harold Cannon It’s a 2001 MacLellan cocobolo practice chanter.

[@haroldcannon5618]

How is this holding up? I did my practice chanters about 2 weeks ago and have had zero issues so far.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Still holding up strong! The color is ever so slightly less bright, but still orange, not stinky, and no extra string has been added!

[@haroldcannon5618]

Mine are still holding up like a champ on my practice chanters and I just did all the joints on my Shepherd D smallpipes in red.

[@seanwennihan6191]

Hi Matt I Just Put Some Polyester Thread On My Pipe Chanter On My Bagpipes & I Wanted Know If It Will Hold Pretty Good & Not Slip Out Of The Chanter Stock While I’m Playing The Bagpipes I’m Going To Practice On It Today 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪☘️☘️☘️☘️

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

I tend to put a single short wrap of waxed hemp over the polyester of the chanter joint to give it a bit more to bite onto.

[@seanwennihan6191]

@@MattWillisBagpiper I’ll Put Some Waxed Hemp On Before I Practice Today Thank You For The Helpful Information 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪☘️☘️☘️☘️

[@briansamosky5536]

Hey Matt - it has been a few years since you did this video - are you still using the polyester thread or did you go back to hemp?

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Still using polyester! And it’s still holding up great.

[@brendan8233]

Hi Matt For your great help with these videos. Can you tell me what thickness thread you use please. Greetings from Switzerland. Brendan

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Whatever the Dual Duty XP from Coats & Clark is... There's no additional info on the spool.

[@driesluypaert4147]

Hi Matt, are you still happy with this method after putting this video up 5 years ago? Also, could I use beeswax instead of hempseal to seal the thread on the joint?

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

The polyester is still holding up great. Still have the same thread on my practice chanter that I did in that video. I find beeswax makes joints kind of grabby rather than smooth like hemp seal.

[@stanmathewson8434]

Hi Matt I’m new to piping and have had my pipes for about a year now. It is time to do some maintenance on my pipes again ( oil, clean, rehemp, etc). I was really interested in the polyester threat hemping so I rehemped my two practice chanters and I really like the result. I’m about to rehemp my pipes and think I’m going to use the polyester thread but I have a question about the hemp seal (toilet ring wax). You mention not using it on heirloom pipes. My question is if I use the hemp seal (toilet ring wax) will it damage my Blackwood pipes? I have a 2018 set of McCallum ab04de. Thanks for you input.

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

I've used the ring wax on all my pipes since the early 2000s with no issues, but that said, the petroleum distillates in the ring wax can be absorbed to some degree by the wood. The Bore Doctor "Doctor Slick" product is completely natural and works okay, but does not work nearly as well as the ring wax for ease of tuning, and having my instrument perform well and readily at a performance beats out keeping the instrument absolutely perfect. If you wanted to ensure no petroleum distillates make it into your blackwood, use the Bore Doctor product. Hope that helps!

[@stanmathewson8434]

Thank you it does. I’m not worried about the mineral oil. I won’t be using that much to make a huge difference anyway. Looks like it’s polyester for my pipes next week. Thanks again.

[@timothyaldrich4926]

Hi Matt are you still using the polyester thread instead of yellow or black waxed hemp

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

I do, though not on every set. The combo of waxed hemp and unwaxed hemp works almost as well for me, though that said, I'm a very dry blower, so I don't tend to have moisture issues. If one is a wet blower, polyester would be my go-to choice.

[@spodosol]

I'm new to the pipes. Wondering why the chanters aren't corked? Is it a matter of tradition?

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

I'm not entirely certain of the reason, but I prefer polyester thread or even hemp to cork. I've even cut off the corks from my saxophone necks and replaced with string. You can get exactly the fitting you want easily with thread.

[@mitchbain3338]

Do yiu just add more thread when it becomes loose?

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Yep! And take some off it the wood swells in higher humidity environments. The ease of adjustment with thread/string is why I greatly prefer this over say cork joints.

[@timothyaldrich4926]

What did you use to seal the pipes and where can I get it sorry it’s just loud at the house and could not hear lol

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

You can buy it at most bagpipe retailers. It's called hemp seal. Or you can head to a hardware store and get a wax ring for toilet installation. Same stuff. 👍

[@Danileith123]

Matt, I realize this is two years old at this point. A couple things... How is it working out for you after two years? Also, I just did this with my insider tenor and it worked perfectly. My wife, who is very familiar with thread, said to try a top stitch thread as it's a bit thicker. You won't have to do the winding twisting of three threads that way. Or did you already try and toss this idea?

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Here was my final thoughts on it all: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJyTaWeYlt-LipI As for thicker string, I found thicker polyester thread tended to unravel more readily. I like the normal stuff.

[@Danileith123]

@@MattWillisBagpiper Not sure how I missed that, and thank you for the quick reply! Keep going. Sending some patreon love your way.

[@n9sferatu261]

Might try this with my goose idk yet

[@chrismills2012]

I thought polyester thread was mainly used on border pipes and scottish smallpipes?

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Works here too!

[@n9sferatu261]

There over there they are one the floor now

[@MattWillisBagpiper]

Ha! Yeah, I was a bit sillier in my earlier videos it seems.

[@n9sferatu261]

@@MattWillisBagpiper 😆 haha

[@n9sferatu261]

@@MattWillisBagpiper I've decided I will unbox my McCallum pc4 goose on camera so you can get a good idea I'm ordering it today