Synthetic Body Materials for Fly Tying
Synthetic body materials are one of the broadest and most diverse groups in modern fly tying. They include strips, films, tubing, braids, and specialised synthetic structures used to build the main body of artificial flies.
Unlike traditional materials such as dubbing or floss, synthetic body materials offer greater control over shape, durability, and visual effect.
What are body materials?
This category includes several types:
Body wraps / films
Thin synthetic strips used for smooth or textured bodies.
Tubing materials
Hollow or semi-rigid tubes used for segmented bodies and streamer profiles.
Braided materials
Woven structures used for durable and uniform bodies.
Stretch materials
Elastic strips that mimic natural segmentation.
Realistic body materials
Pre-designed materials for insect and baitfish imitation.
Applications
Used in:
nymphs
streamers
wet flies
attractor patterns
Advantages
precise body control
high durability
UV and water resistance
repeatable results
ability to create layered effects