I have been building rods for over 20 years, always doing the wrapping by hand. I recently acquired a Rodsmith power wrapper. My first attempt at wrapping with it showed me that there is some technique I need to learn. No instructions on wrapping came with the unit. Is there anything online I can read to get some pointers?

No instructions that I am aware of. It's just trial and error. After a few wraps you will get the hang of it. Repitition is about the only way to get good at power wrapping.

I have a Clemens wrapper. One thing I have found that helps me when getting started is this. I don't know if the Rodsmith has a tensioning device (other than that applied to thread), but I started my wraps by hand and without the tension device. Then after four or five wraps to lock down the thread, I placed the thread on the tensionor and started power wrapping. Now that I have been doing it for a little while (five or six rods on this wrapper) I can start a thread under power. I find many times I only use the power for longer sections of wrap. I frequently do single/double wind inlays just 3-5 turns into the wrap, so until I get started up the guidefoot, I don't use the power. I wish I could be of more help, but I am not familiar with the Rodsmith. Unfortunately, like Kevin said, it is mainly trial and error. Have you tried contacting the manufacturer for instructions? Pac Bay is very helpful to custom builders.

It just takes practice, the more you wrap the better you get! But maybe you can try this: keep your speed low!!! start by practicing just straight underwraps,then overwrap a guide on, do this a few times and last try what was shown to me about 20 years ago by two excellent rod builders: take the thread holder,tensioner off the lathe and use a fly tying bobbin, I find it much easier to control! Good luck,and don't worry after a few rods you'll have the pedal to the metal.