Real Turkey Feathers

Preserving a Turkey Feather

Step 1

Clean the feather using warm water without soap to remove any dirt, dust or blood.  Next, stroke the feather from the quill upward to prevent damage..  Dry the feather with a blow dryer set on the lowest heat setting, as high heat can make the feather brittle.

Step 2

Preen the feather by holding onto the quill and use your free hand to carefully shape the feather by running it between your thumb and forefinger. Once the feather is in the desired shape, "preen" it by spraying it with a permanent insect repellent on both sides. These insect repellents are usually waterproof, since they go on clothing for outdoor use, and will keep humidity and moisture from damaging the feather. In addition, the repellent keeps hungry insects away from the feather. Let the repellent dry completely before handling the feather.

Step 3

Keep it safe.  The key to preserving a feather once it has been shaped and sprayed is to keep it out of direct sunlight.  Dust the feather every couple of months with a soft duster to keep it clean.

Step 4

Protect it permanently.  Frame your feather with a shadow-box or put it in a display case to keep it protected for as long as you own it.  Glass that filters ultraviolet light should be used when possible. This will prevent damage from sunlight and will keep the feather's colors bright.