Diawl Bach (Little Devil)
I learned this technique some thirty years ago and have always used it. I only recently started using a whip finishing tool with the more delicate patterns. This is not an easy technique to demonstrate to others so the link is informative on how to perform the whip finish by hand.
http://home7.swipnet.se/~w-71486/whippeneng.htm#step8
http://globalflyfisher.com/patterns/diawl_bach/ (link for the Diawl Bach Pattern)
“Some years ago, I had the pleasure of being taught how to make that excellent finishing knot, the Whip Finish, with just my hand.” “For the avid fly fisherman searching for the right knot to match the hatch, this one tied just with the hands, is perfect. No need for any hassle with too many tools while stalking the trout. Even very small flies can be finished with this finger trick. You don’t have to worry anymore about forgetting the traditional Whip Finish Tool when you know this finishing technique” says Harry Salmgren, inviting you to try it for yourself.
http://swittersb.wordpress.com/2008/07/19/french-flytying-astucesgood-instructions-tools/
