Description
What I Use Fly Tying Wax For – with Davie McPhail
In this video, I explain why I use wax on my fly tying threads, the benefits it offers, and how it can make a difference when dressing flies.
Wax has been used in fly tying for generations, particularly when working with traditional silk threads. It helps the thread grip the hook and the materials we tie in, giving us more control and helping to produce a secure, neatly dressed fly.
I also look at the differences between traditional fly tying wax and cobbler's wax, including how certain waxes can change the colour and appearance of silk threads, something that can be particularly important when dressing traditional wet flies, spiders and other classic patterns.
Although many modern tying threads are already waxed or treated, there are still good reasons why I prefer to use a little wax when tying certain flies.
As always, it's about understanding the materials we use and making the most of them.
I hope you enjoy the video and find it helpful.
Tight lines,
Davie McPhail
0:00 Introduction to fly tying wax
2:35 Benefits and history of wax
5:32 Demonstrating wax application
7:29 Dubbing and finishing flies
10:50 Selecting threads and materials
13:28 Final thoughts on wax usage