1916. To Dye Feathers Blue

Into two pennyworths of oil of vitriol, mix two pennyworths of the best indi go in powder; let it stand a day or two; when wanted shake it well and into a quart of boiling water put one table-spoonful of the liquid. Stir it well, put the feathers in, and let them simmer a few minutes - (See 419.)

1917 Yellow. - Put a tablespoonful of the best turmeric into a quart of boiling water; when well mixed put in the feathers. More or less of the turmeric will give them different shades, and a very small quantity of soda will give them an orange hue - (See 423.)

1918. Green

Mix the indigo liquid with turmeric, and pour boiling water over it; let the feathers simmer in the dye until they have acquired the shade you want them.

1919. Pink

Three good pink saucers in a quart of boiling water, with a small quantity of cream of tartar. If a deep colour is required, use four sau cers. Let the feathers remain in the dye several hours.

1920. Red

Into a quart of boiling water dissolve a teaspoonful of cream of tartar, put in one tablespoonful of prepared cochineal, and then a few drops of muriate of tin. This dye is expensive, and scarlet flowers are best made with the plumage of the red Ibis, which can generally be had of a bird-fancier or bird-stuffer, who will give directions how it may be applied.

1921. Lilac - About two teaspoon-fuls of cudbear, into about a quart of boiling water; let it simmer a few minutes before you put in the feathers A small quantity of cream of tartar turns the color from lilac to amethyst.

1922 Black.-(See 418.) Crimson

(See 420.) Read the general instructions upon Dyeing (402.)

1923. Before the Feathers are Dyed they must be put into Lot water, and let them drain before they are put into the dyes. After they are taken out of the dye, rinse them two or three times in clear cold water (except the red), which must only be done once. Then lay them on a tray, over which a cloth has been spread, before a good fire; when they begin to dry and unfold draw each feather gently between your thumb and finger, until it regains its proper shape.

1924. The Leaves of the Flowers are made of green feathers, cut like those of the natural flower, and serrated at the edge with a very small pair of scissors. For the calix of a moss-rose the down is left on the feather, and is a very good representation of the moss on the natural flower.