Using Epoxy Resins in Fly Tying

Prior to UV cure resins, two-part epoxy resins were the fly tier’s choice for building up wing cases, heads, and even full bodies on flies. They’re still popular with saltwater tiers because they’re relatively cheap, build fast, and once cured are nearly indestructible.

There are different versions of epoxy that have different working and curing times as well as different strengths. For all, however, proper mixing is of the utmost importance.

It’s a good idea to wear protective gloves whenever you’re handling epoxy. The syringe-type epoxy packages are the easiest to use. Simply press the plunger to dispense equal amounts of resin and hardener, then thoroughly mix both parts together. The better the two are mixed, the better the results for application. I like super-cheap disposable brushes that I also use for mixing. Most epoxy resins have a somewhat limited working time, so don’t dally during application. A drying wheel is almost essential in order to keep the epoxy from sagging as it cures.