I've been making my own for several years now. I make the for my 5wt., 3 wt., 7 wt., and my 11' tenkara.
I think a shorter leader is better, I use 70 denier tying thread for all mine.
I treat mine with Loons Patee Paste and get good floating from them. They do tend to get water logged, but if you let them dry a little, 20 - 30 min. while using another rod then quickly treat and get back to dry fly fishing, I feel they work great.
I'd love to bring everything to another meeting this winter.
I'd like to find a machinist that I can work with to make a furling machine. If there are any out there.
If anyone wants to contact me with questions, please email me.