Heated thread tensioner assembly

A method for maintaining a moving string of waxed thread at a tension, comprising the steps of:

• (A) receiving said waxed thread into a tensioner assembly at a thread input opening;
• (B) passing said string of waxed thread through said tensioner assembly, said tensioner assembly including a tensioner mounting frame having a thread output opening for outputting said string of waxed thread at said tension, a tensioner arm with a plurality of eyelets affixed thereto for guiding said string of waxed thread, said tensioner arm being pivotally connected to said tensioner mounting frame, a plurality of tensioner rods for guiding said string of waxed thread, said plurality of tensioner rods being rigidly affixed to said tensioner mounting frame, and a spring, having a first end coupled to said tensioner mounting frame and a second end coupled to said tensioner arm, for creating a tension in said string of waxed thread;
• and
• (C) heating said tensioner assembly with a heating means while performing steps (A) and (B).