Dyed Feathers

 

Dyed Feathers

Did you know Rit dye will color natural feathers (not the synthetic ones)? Feathers can be dyed any color, but look pretty in pastel and bright colors. Dyed feathers can be used to create unique design accents in many types of DIY projects – holiday decorations, party favors, flowers and centerpieces, masks, Native American headdresses, and more!

White Feathers Before Dyeing

 

Dyed Feathers

 
Rit Dye colors shown:

  • Lemon Yellow, Golden Yellow, Sunshine, Orange, Violet, Fuchsia, Evening Blue, Apple Green

Helpful Hints

  • To keep shape of feathers, avoid excessive handling.
  • White feathers look best when dyed in pastel or bright colors.
  • Feathers must be clean. Wash in warm suds and rinse thoroughly. This is not necessary if using feathers purchased in a craft store.
  • When dyeing feathers, use hot (140°F) but not boiling water.
  • Do not dry feathers with heat as this will cause them to become dry and brittle.
     
 

Supplies Needed

  • Rit Liquid or Powder Dye: Any color or mix dye to create a custom color. Colors used in photographs: Sunshine Orange, Evening Blue, Scarlet, Fuchsia, Lemon
  • Yellow, Violet, Apple Green, Golden Yellow
  • White Feather Quills by Darice
  • Measuring Cup
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Disposable Plastic Containers for dyeing feathers
  • Spoon for mixing dyes
  • Rubber Gloves
  • Plastic Table Cover
  • Paper Towels
 

Instructions

  1. Cover work surface with a plastic table cover.
  2. Decide what colors you like and prepare dye according to the basic recipe below. Liquid dyes are more concentrated than powder dyes so use half as much dye. Always test color with a fabric scrap or paper towel before dyeing feathers. If color is too light, add more dye; if it is too dark, add more water.
  3. Basic Recipe: Measure and mix ¼ cup liquid dye or ½ package (3 teaspoons) powder dye with 1 quart very HOT tap water. Shake liquid dyes before measuring. Water should be about 140°F. If your tap water is not hot enough, heat some in the microwave or a tea kettle.
  4. Pour dye and water into a plastic container; stir. Make sure container is wide enough to hold feathers.
  5. Immerse feathers in dye solution for 2 to 5 minutes. Stir occasionally and check color frequently. Remove feathers when desired color is achieved. Feathers should be a shade darker than desired because the color appears darker when wet.
  6. Rinse feathers carefully in warm water. Spread feathers on paper towels to air dry.

Details