So playdough was never high on your entertainment list. The wires do require a a third hand if you even want to come close to looking like you know what the word accuracy means.
Yeah, I know three wires are more accurate but when you are sneaking up on a class 3 fit, you can check tolerances 5-6 times or more. I've tried tape, I've tried modeling clay, and I've even tried holes in delrin to hold those stupid wires. Thing is, I thread different threads and diameter all the time and it is so much hassle to fuss with those wires and I meant what I said; I drop them all the time. Now I don't need to; a Tesa thread micrometer is a jewel to use. I haven't compared them to a three wire reading yet but I cut a 1/2-20 class 3 thread on a 1144 stressproof stud - running fit with zero play.
No, you can go play with your dough. I'll settle for my Tesa ... but I'll be smiling!