Gil, I like the invisible wraps and the reel seat with the Half Wells grip. Did you use silk thread? I usually tip my wraps with another color. I used marine spar varnish with a camel brush for non impregnated rods.
I haven't made a rod in years, but I used to buy the bamboo blanks when they were reasonable. I found it hard to find the best cork to make the grips and can't remember the grade but it might have been A. Still have quite a few components but would need a magnifier to wrap and smooth finger tips for using silk.

David