Soaking is the only way to get it soft and pliable. That is why I like the sinew glue. It is the same protien base and so it is absorbed well. However Watered down TB will absorb and work as well. Instead of the comb method on wood I just Soak several bundles then when very soft (like wet hair) I hold between the thumb and forfinger and slide the other (thumb forfinger) down the length, This will ring off excess glue and straighten the fibers at the same time. If not completely straight and flat I will then dip and do this a few times till I'm satisfied. Much faster then combing.