Turkey feather

[jackpine1209]

Howdy,
I was wondering what to use on the back of the feather to toughen it up. Just so that, it will not split when using it for wing cases for example. Any info is appreciated!
Thanks

[Tig]

Go to an art shop and ask if they have 'workable fixatif'. It's a spray that can be used on charcoal drawings that will keep it from getting smudged. Krylon is the brand name I use. Make sure you use it in an extremely well ventilated area. I stick the feathers into a hunk of styrofaom and spray them lightly.

[ScottP]

I like Krylon Clear spray acrylic. Used to use the gloss, but now I think it's a bit too shiny and prefer the Satin finish. Whatever you use, do it in a well ventilated area; stuff has some potent fumes. BTW, welcome to the board.

Regards,
Scott

edit - Tig's a faster typer than me; sorry for the duplicate info

[Allan]

In no particular order:
What was already suggested.
Spray lacquer.
Rubber cement - thinned.
Flexament.
Plumbers, Household, Shoe, Other 'GOOP' - thinned.
Any other cement that dries soft or flexible.

Place a little on either side of feather slip (I prefer the shiny side) and run fingers through to spread the glue in the direction from base to tip. Important: Try to straighten the barbs on the feather slip beforehand. You'll get a neater slip. With the spray application you can do an entire feather much more easily but then you have to separate individual slips with a needle. So don't overspray.

Allan

[jackpine1209]

Thank you for your replies!

[NJTroutbum]

Minwax Clear poly spray works fine. Been using the same can for about 10yrs now.