Pre-1960 big game reels & rods

[Shellbelly]

Are these blanks easier to wrap than round ones?  Are there different techniques that are necessary with square blanks?

[Swami805]

I've never wrapped a square blank but done a fair amount of octagon and hexagon.  They Bounce around some on the lathe ,gotta go slow. Can also wrap them with tape where the rollers are to round if off some which could work out ok on a square one

[oldmanjoe]

 I do 98% of my wrapping in my lap watching tv on the couch . It does not make a difference round , octagon , square or d shape it`s all the same ..   I hold the spool in my left hand and turn the stick with my right hand .  I pack the threads with my right thumb nail as i go .

[Shellbelly]

I pack the threads with my right thumb nail as i go .

That's how I was taught to do it.  I inherited the technology of a 60's Netcraft kit from my grandfather.  Human-powered analog rod wrapping.  It came to me complete with my grandmother's clear nail polish.