For rags ...You can buy backer rod in most stores. Its is also called caulk saver. 3/8" is what I prefer, grey is what you will find in most hardware stores. you'll have to shop around for white. cut the foam rod in 1 inch bits(or what ever size you prefer) take your favorite yarn color and a yarn needle. string on the foam bits like popcorn through the sides. Clip them apart so you have yarn hanging from each side. Rig them up by putting a bead or sequin above your 1/0 or larger(barbless) hook. Thread your mono through the ends of the rag. slide it down to the hook. tie it to your swivel and you are good to go. Also you can go to most fly stores and buy tubes for tube flies.
You can tie your favorite fly pattern on the tube, leave some untied space at the end. pop a hole in a rod piece and slide it onto the head of the fly.(put some fly laquer under neath) Now you have a custom aerofly.
Marabous are popular, I prefer shrimp and egg-like patterns. Leech patterns work well too.

[This message has been edited by KORE (edited 03-25-99).]