Does anyone have a good idea for how to flatten or preen the feathers back into place? I am trying to groom an old mount for our nature case at school and it looks pretty good except for the ends of the tail feathers, I've supported them with my hand and tried to brush them straight with an old toothbrush, but they pop back out of place after a few minutes. I'm thinking heat and steam, but don't know how to apply. Thanks.
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...I forgot to check archives first. I got some idea now.
RE: Your question about straightening tail feathers on a mount.
REPLY: Your idea of using steam or heat is good. When preparing Turkey feathers for craft work I use a simple steam iron that is set at a temperature that is used for ironing shirts with steam. This process does not damage feathers unless you press down to hard on the iron. As you heat the feather, bend or twist the feather to the shape you want it. Allow to cool and inspect your feather. If the bend or change you desired does not stay or is too little or too much then repeat the process.
I iron imitation eagle feathers ( dyed Turkey feathers) for my Native American craft work. Since flat eagle tail feathers were originally used, the craftsman needs to straighten the feathers before using them to replace eagle feathers. Two other methods have been recommended for this process but I have had little luck and a couple of burns with the other two methods. An alternate method is to heat the feather with steam from a tea kettle, watch your fingers. The last method is to use a light bulb to accomplish the heating.
I hope this helps you solve your straigthen problem
Eisen Teton