FWIW,

"PS, i tied this from a picture, not a recipe..... what is the best way to attach the wings? to ensure equal length... i split it into 2 clumps, and did figure eights to ensure separation... suggestions?"

Here are a few: Do get some photos that show not only proportions(which often vary depending on the tyer) but that also show the volume of materials especially for the tail, wing and hackle. Excellent book is Mike Vallla's, Tying Catskill Dry Flies. Do a search for a specific pattern and see how the various photos differ. Select the one that conforms to the way you like to see it. Learn how to create wings by either using 2 smaller feathers or a larger feather and dividing the fibers. Using a figure 8 is only part of the process. Perhaps you can get someone to give you some hands on instruction. That'll take months or even years off of a learning curve. Above all: use the best materials you can afford, have patience and enjoy the results. Oh, keep that fly. Frame it and see how it compares to what you're tying 5 years from now.

Good luck.

Allan