How to Create a Quill Pen
The art of writing with a quill pen is traditional and can produce fantastic calligraphy. Used for hundreds of years, the simple quill pen is easy to make and less expensive than store-bought counterparts. This article will explain how to select a quill and prepare it for use as a writing implement.
Instructions
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Select a quill. While it is possible to find a suitable feather naturally, many times it is far simpler to purchase the feather from a craft store. Regardless of where it is found, a good quill will have an intact, non-crushed feather tube, which will be transparent for some way along the shaft.
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Temper the nib. This is done by exposing it to heat, and adds resilience to the finished quill. Place the sand in the heat-proof container and bury the shaft end of the feather in the sand. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 15 minutes, then remove from heat carefully. Allow the feather to cool before proceeding. Tempering the nib is optional, but can increase the longevity of your quill.
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Strip the feather. Use the penknife to remove the barbs from the lower portion of the feather until it is comfortable in your hand.
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Cut the nib. Hold the feather the same way you would a pen, to choose the most comfortable orientation. Using the penknife, cut the end of the quill along a diagonal. Split the point of the nib in the center.
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Tips & Warnings
Choose feathers with a defined and intact shaft. A wider shaft is easiest for beginners.
