When I design a bug, I start by trying to think out every part or segment of the bug that will show the best result. Normally I draw out the shape I want. I divide it up into sections and list as big an option of materials that I think will work. Then through a process of elimination or trial, I rule out the bad and the weak. I avoid hooks to tie on. I actually use a widened paper clip. I’ll start on a body only. Using a hook forces me to finish a complete fly and in the designs beginning, you are a long way from the finish.
Next I’ll tie a thorax. Next a thorax and legging. Next a wing. Then a head – eyes and antennae. I display my stepped efforts until I am satisfied with the best choice.
If I am working on a wing, that is all I’ll show. I also research the bug. I have pictures – photographs – Books – drawings and sketches. Any prop that will aid you in achieving your goal. Most of my first efforts and patterns use no materials that are available at any fly shops. I have resorted to plastics and synthetics not seen in normal tying. Since nothing is written down, be prepared for some failures. Don’t be discouraged. Just keep your efforts up and look for breakthroughs. Suspect every material you can think might work. Don’t worry about what the neighbors will say when you are digging through the trash looking for treasure materials. Record your trials so you can backtrack and reproduce your efforts, and most of all, don’t be afraid to change your completed project if it can be improved upon. If you discover a new product that produces a better effort, change and use it. This will keep your projects up-to-date. The main advantage to this constant experimenting is that many products work well on other patterns as well.
Next I’ll tie a thorax. Next a thorax and legging. Next a wing. Then a head – eyes and antennae. I display my stepped efforts until I am satisfied with the best choice.
If I am working on a wing, that is all I’ll show. I also research the bug. I have pictures – photographs – Books – drawings and sketches. Any prop that will aid you in achieving your goal. Most of my first efforts and patterns use no materials that are available at any fly shops. I have resorted to plastics and synthetics not seen in normal tying. Since nothing is written down, be prepared for some failures. Don’t be discouraged. Just keep your efforts up and look for breakthroughs. Suspect every material you can think might work. Don’t worry about what the neighbors will say when you are digging through the trash looking for treasure materials. Record your trials so you can backtrack and reproduce your efforts, and most of all, don’t be afraid to change your completed project if it can be improved upon. If you discover a new product that produces a better effort, change and use it. This will keep your projects up-to-date. The main advantage to this constant experimenting is that many products work well on other patterns as well.
