Dyeing Turkey Feathers

[Stickbow]

For those that have dyed feathers did you notice any change in the feathers ability to shed water after you dyed them? I would like change some colors but was so impressed by their natural oils and the ability to shed water it would not be worth it to me.

Thanks

[Caughtandhobble]

I use the Koolaid dye method. The process used was hot water (not boiling) and vinegar, I did not soak undyed feathers in soapy water prior to dying.

Once dyed and fletched I actually soaked the natural and the dyed feathers submerged in water. After the soaking I noticed no difference at all.

I know that is not very scientific but that's all I have.  


   

[Westkyhunter]

I use kool aid as well. I rinse them in warm dish detergent water and rinse. Then microwave the kool aid, vinegar and water and get very hot and put the feathers in. Some times I microwave with feathers in the solution. Seems like they take the color better the hotter the water is. Could be wrong though.lol They turn out very good for me. If you do very many though you'll have to add more kool aid to the water and vinegar solution.

[Gordon Jabben]

No, I haven't noticed any change.

[Stickbow]

Cool, thanks for the input guys.

[J. Cook]

When you dye real turkey feathers - do you wash them first?  I would think this would remove the natural oils that make them waterproof.