Although it may sound like a simple thing to do - some people just starting out have some trouble tying in tinsel. First on some tinsels there is a gold side and a silver side. If you want the silver side to show on the fly - tie in the gold side so that is facing up and visa versa. When you make that first wrap, the tinsel will fold over to the side you want. Like many materials, I found many have trouble with it rolling on the hook shank when tied in. Although you can use the "loose loop" for this - there is an easier and quicker way - at least I think so.....

1. Some people lay their tinsel with the flat side facing them or flat against the hook shank when they tie it in. Then it wants to roll on the shank.
 


2. Try what I tell people to lay the tinsel in against the thread like you were using it to cut the thread.
 
In other words - put the edge of the tinsel against the thread right where it comes off the shank as shown.
 


3. Now when you make that first wrap the tinsel should lay against the hook shank without rolling out of place.
 



And by tying this in with the gold side out -when you make the first wrap of tinsel - there is a slight fold over and the silver side is shown.
 

Thanks steely. Another thing to consider when tying flat tinsel bodies is to start with an oval tinsel or wire tag to keep the flat tinsel from slipping back on the hook shank. A fine wire rib over flat tinsel is good for adding durability to the fly body. Tag and rib for floss bodies as well.

Yep, plumbob is right on

Good point plumbob. -- thanks much.