I've done a few butt wraps (chevrons, diamond,etc.) and was checking out YouTube for some new ideas. In my search I ran across ones where a wide thread or ribbon was used rather than multiple thread wraps.

Does anyone know what the material is, or where I cand purchase some?

There is braided material that is about 1/8" wide or so. Gudebrod used to have it. Karen at Bingham carries the Makoi brand of it now. I think there are 5 or 6 colors currently.

I've also seen some stuff done with materials from the sewing or craft section but it needs to be well sealed with CP to avoid reaction with the epoxy. Best bet is a rod building supplier like Scott said.

Thanks guys.  I figured some builders supply either has or had offered the material.  I'll check it out, but I don't think the finished product will have the same quality as single thread work. I'm learning that this hobby will teach you patience, I'm just a slow learner.  Tight Wraps.

Intricate thread wraps are tedious work. Honestly, I concentrate more on performance designs and use grip and trim material to trim out builds. 

Do those exotic wraps above the fore grip offer some functionality?  I most often see them on heavier boat or trolling rods.  Surfcasters tend to have them too.

They are nothing but decoration IMO. They may offer some protection for the blank.

Actually, if anything, NOT having them adds functionality to a lighter rod. The affect is less dramatic on the butt of a rod but the weight of multiple layers of epoxy is something you just don't want on a typical bass, trout etc. rod.  

They are nothing but decoration IMO. They may offer some protection for the blank.

 I like a holographic wrap in the hook keeper area, for a bit of extra protection. I'll do one in the split grip area occasionally.

 

I don't know how much weight this adds. I have a build coming up which will have this wrap in the split. I'll try to remember to do a before/after weight, to see what it actually adds.

Forgot to add; I do not do any weaving or cross-wrapping. It's lot of work that adds no functionality, and I'm no good at it. I don't see myself ever becoming good at it.

 

There are some folks doing amazing work with thread, and I applaud their artistry.

The talent of some people doing the thread art is outstanding. In the bass rod market, people won't spend the kind of money required to make doing a wrap worthwhile. Prices for a decrative wrap or weave alone are close to half or more of what I charge for a build.