I came across this link with a video demonstrating an ant pattern that uses foam coated with clear Goo or something similar. Not sure how it will work but it looks interesting.
http://dailyflytyer.com/2011/07/hard-body-ant-curtis-fry
I've been lurking for a while and following this thread with interest.
This may be a dumb question but that's what I specialize in so - where do you get the tubing?