What do y’all suggest for split rings to attach hooks to a newly painted blank? Also, what hook size do you recommend for a 1.5 square bill type bait?

Hook for a 1.5--size four I prefer a round bend for the rear hook and an EWG for the front hook.

split rings--definitely prefer quality split rings. I like these from Barlow's Tackle

I would have to check when I get home, but do believe I use the #4 for 1.5's as CCTX stated and #5 for 2.5's. I have it written on my box the # size and mm. Not all split rings are created equal, I prefer HD stainless split rings. I would also have to check on the hooks as I always get them confused, but I want to say I use size 4 and 6. The only time I would consider a lighter split ring was if I was trying to get a jerk bait to suspend.

Thanks for the info guys!

If I was to put a short shank Mustad triple grip what would you recommend?

I’d start with two size 4s. With a 1.5 (even with short shanks) you’d risk getting the hook tangling with the lip and/or line going to size 2.

Thanks everyone for the advice!

Ok I’m in my garage now. I use size 4 for 1.5’s and size 2 on 2.5’s.

Split rings are #3 or 5.5mm for 1.5’ and #4 or 6mm for 2.5’s.

Thanks Matt!

Super helpful!

I got a bag of 100 of Size 3 Split rings from Drop Zone Baits on Ebay. They aren't stainless, but I have had good luck with them so far. I am new to bait painting and have just been following what I see on commercial baits. I did put a size 6 on the front and a 4 on the back of one of my 1.5's that I created. I have caught 1 fish on a 1.5 that i painted.. chartruese and black.
FWIW
BD

size 2 split rings can go on pretty much all crankbaits imo. Then get one bigger and one smaller for those other baits...unless you paint swimbaits then you really gotta go bigger.