Hey Ned,
The most recommended approach to my experience is first try to find the end of the string, unwind say a foot of thread, and rewind neatly. This is often the trick. What I most often do instead is wrap one layer over the thread with plumber’s white Teflon tape.I’ve never needed more than two snuggly pulled layers. NO MATTER WHAT! The joint should slide easily together without force. A little ‘wobble’ is okay if no air is leaking. If in doubt, take it to a Woodwind repair shop or mail it to one of the ARS recommended Recorder shops. NOT Guitar Center!
