Fairyflight Suits

With a flap of insect wings and a silken pop, fairyflight suits allow a wearer to glide great distances and safely fall for miles. These suits are a single garment, covering neck to ankles with brightly patterned spider silk. Between the elbows and torso, as well as between the legs, there are woven parachutes that slow a fall and allow the person to steer. Attached to the back and arms are scavenged insect wings that allow for precision and power in aerial maneuvering. Despite the name, Fairies do not make use of these suits as they have natural flight. Instead, these suits were modeled after the biology of fairies and flying squirrels by the elves of The Fungal Steppes.

Making the Suit

The wings of these wingsuits are harvested from dead giant insects, usually Great Butterflies or blacktail wasps. Thin metal struts and wood braces are used to secure the wings to the back and upper arms the wearer. Traditionally, a fungal glue adheres the wings as well, allowing for a more natural flex to the wings.   The parachute folds are made of finely woven spider silk, keeping the suit light but strong. The rest of the suit is typically made from leathers, either fungal or animal, providing flexibility, strength, and most importantly resistance to scratches or tears from rough or difficult landings.   Working a fairyflight suit requires several simple tools, but advanced techniques. Leatherworking tools are needed for the bulk of the fitting, while silk pluckers are needed to weave the spider webs of the parachutes. Fitting the wings is the most difficult part of the process, using small drills to place holes in the chitin as well as the wood frame and working wires or leather strands throughout.