Thanks for the advice, Ann. That makes me feel better about using artificial sinew. I really like the way it feels and have been very satisfied with my results so far, but I am new to this and none of my projects have been put to the test of time. I just want to be sure that the thread that I'm using is going to hold up. I may still expiriment with different materials such as nylon and linen, but I think I will continue to use sinew as well. Thanks again for the info!