Feathers’ Structure

The central axis of the feather, called feather shaft or rachis, is the most rigid of the feather. Both, the external half and the internal half grow off the central shaft. These halves are made up of numerous barbs that run parallel to each other thanks to the barbules. When a bird flies or brushes any surface, these barbules can be opened. This is how we see how the birds groom afterwards.

Cleanliness

The main tool is a simple toothbrush, which allows us to remove spots or dust easily whilst preventing the break of the barbules. Depending on the bird species, if it is an acquatic bird or not, feathers could be dampened.

Brushing

If the feathers are badly damaged, I advise you to use a paintbrush. You should brush both halves smoothly in the direction they are growing and if it is necessary, you will cut the excess barbs to level their length.

Maintenance

Due to their biological origin, feathers are susceptible to undesirable insects. If you are going to keep them for a long period of time, you have to put mothballs in the box or envelope where you will keep them.

Handling

Here is the important the work of the featherdressers. Their tools and the proccesses of dying, curling or assembling are part of the know-how of these artisans.

Translated by Natalia Díaz