This isn't exactly a taxidermy question, but I thought that there would be some followers of this forum that might be able to provide me with some input. I'm sure all of us have admired all of the beautiful colors on the various birds that we deal over time. Well, some time ago I was at a dinner party at the home of a guy that collects oriental items, like furniture, glassware, etc. One piece that he had was just incredible; it was a serving tray which had a glass surface, underneath which were fantastic geometric patterns created out of irridescent butterfly wings. When I saw that, I had the idea of creating something similar out of various colored bird feathers, since I happen to have an old glass bottomed serving tray that I could refinish and adapt for this purpose. I've since been saving all sorts of feathers from birds that I've harvested, both upland and waterfowl, and have all I need to get started. What I'm wondering about is what kind of material I should use as a base on which I could place the feathers in my design patterns, without affecting the feather pigments (I know I'll have to keep this item out of any sun or bright light when it's done). From many years of Duck Unlimited dinner organizing, I'm familiar with the need to use acid free materials for framing prints, etc. I'm presuming I'd have to at least take that into account, but what I would want to do is have a sticky surface on which I could place the feathers in my design patterns; when all the patterns are complete, I would press the feathers in place with the glass tray and fasten and seal the piece. Does anyone have any suggestions about specific materials, particularly something adhesive, that might work for this? I'm also thinking that pieces of this nature would make a nice sideline to regular taxidermy. While I couldn't sell items using feathers of federally or state protected species, there are many fantastic feathers on exotic species that wouldn't be legally restricted, like many of the pheasants (e.g., golden, lady amherst, etc.). I'll be interested to see if anyone has done this type of work.
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Although I've not used this glue for the same purpose you intend to, I would consider a spray can of "Photo" glue. The kind that allows you to re-position photos without damaging them.This should hold your feathers in place and will allow you to be creative with them. Good luck...JL
And treading on offending someone, don't be surprised that your eyes start looking oriental as well. I've seen it done on Okinawa and in Saigon and it's a tedious and mind numbing effort with tweezers. And Lord help you if a gust of wind comes by. Lock yourself in a room with no heat and a/c. Good luck. BTW, don't EVER expect to be paid what it's worth.