How do I take care of Porcupine quills

[Pat B]

Jerry, I got the quills in the mail. I appreciate them and the instruction pages you sent. Now, I guess I have to start messing with the quills. I have some scraps of brain tanned to practice with. Can you suggest a place to get the thread and needles or they just any sewing thread and needles?
 You asked for broadheads. Any particular style?  I have Zwicky grizzleys, Grizzleys and Wensel Woodsman(3 blade) and some trade points.

[Pat B]

What do you do with the quill tips when you cut them off. Is there a safe way to discard them?

[Hawkdancer]

Probably wrap them in a paper towel and stick them into a freezer bag and into the trash, or just bury them in the garden, maybe with the flintknapping chips.  I think some trade points would work, I need to learn to wrap them on to a shaft.  I am partial to Zwickey's, though!  My first set of arrows had Zwicky broadheads, they are hiding somewhere in my plunder !
Hawkdancer

[Pat B]

Jerry, I'll send you a couple of each to pay with. 
Thanks again.

[Hawkdancer]

Thanks!!  I have been brainstorming my cresting pattern and personal markings for arrows.  Also have to figure out how to set up and use my chronograph.
Jerry

[GlisGlis]

What do you do with the quill tips when you cut them off

they could be used as fertiliser if you have time enough to let them break apart

[Pat B]

I have critters getting into my compost pile and don't want the quill tips getting into them.

[Pat B]

Here are my first two attempts at quillwork. I think I have the technique but not quite got it down pat yet. As you can see I need lots more practice.

[GlisGlis]

it looks very promising. keep practicing but they alredy looks good
Have you tried dyeing the quills?

[Pat B]

I haven't tried dying yet but plan to soon. That will add more interest to my test runs.

[Hawkdancer]

Looking good for starters!  Rit dye works well.
Hawkdancer

[Pat B]

Thanks Jerry. I'll get some Rit when I go to town...and mail your broadheads.