How to Make a Quill Pen out of a Feather

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Reviewed by Renee Day

Last Updated: January 5, 2024

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Have you ever found a feather and felt you just had to make it in to a quill pen? If so, this article is for you!

Steps

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You can use just any feather that fits comfortably in your hand (i.e. like a pencil), but a long tail feather is best. You'll want a feather with a not too thin shaft, and one that is long.
You may leave them if you prefer, but this makes it easier to work with and easier to hold.

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This is optional, but makes it soft and more easily bent, you will see why later.
This, too, is optional; it hardens the feather so you don't have to resharpen it as often.
Cut your feather at forty-five degrees then make a cut that is opposite the first one at about five degrees (Steepen if necessary).^{[1]
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Research source} This cut should make two horns. Note: The following prioritizes step three if it isn't done yet!
This should create a cracking sound and a pretty central slit at the horns.
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If you want to, you can dye the feather by mixing a hair dye in a clear plastic tub, repeatedly dipping the end of the feather into the dye and gently working through before washing.^{[4]
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Community Q&A

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Question

Do I really have to soak it and sand it?

Community Answer

As stated in the tutorial, no, the soaking and sanding is not mandatory. However, the soaking will make the feather supple, and the sand will strengthen the writing tip. This is certainly recommended if you want to have the quill for prolonged use.

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Can I use a feather I found on the roadside?

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Yes, but wash it in case it contains parasites.

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Can a peacock feather be used?

Community Answer

That depends on what type of feather it is. If it's a tail or wing plume, absolutely. However, other feathers are often too soft.

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Tips

If you don't want to heat your feather just leave it in hot water.

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Don't forget to clean and wash the feather thoroughly if you got it outside.

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Cut the nib (the writing point) blunt(er) to make a calligraphy pen.

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Tips from our Readers

The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.

Drill a hole at the end of the slit, so it doesn’t go further back. This also slightly increases the ink the quill takes in.
You can make your own ink with shelled walnuts and similar plants. Black walnuts usually yield the darkest ink.
If it's legal and available to you, use goose, turkey, owl, or eagle feathers.

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Warnings

You will be using sharp and hot objects, adult supervision/help recommended.

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If you live in the United States, most bird feathers you find on the ground are illegal to keep according to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Make sure you use feathers from legal birds (chickens, domestic geese, invasive birds, etc.) before you attempt this project. You could get hit with a hefty fine or even jail time!

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