Why put back twist in flemish string 2nd loop?

[Don Armstrong]

When I started making flemish strings, I put back twist in the section before making the second loop. Now I don't. Is there a reason for the back twist. I don't see any difference when twisting them up. Thanks, Don

[Steve Kendrot]

The last string I made, I couldn't seem to get the back twist right and the two bundles wouldnt blend together into one nice round string. They are like two snakes twisting around each other. I've heard that back twist helps prevent this, but I'm not sure. I don't make enough strings to have figured it out. I forgot to ask for Chad's new string making video for Christmas!!

[T Folts]

Chad's video explains the back twist is to eliminate the string from winding around each other like two strands of rope. Make sure you are in fact twisting it the correct way.

[Shaun]

Yes, the back twist helps make the two bundles blend into one round string. I pre twist (back twist) the same direction that I twist before making the second loop. This is because after making the second loop twists you fold it back on the bundles and twist two make the second taper. While making this second taper there is no way to straighten the new twists you are adding to the bundles. If you count the added pre twists, and experiment, you will ideally come out with untwisted bundles between the two loops - these will wind around each other making a single round string as you twist the completed string.