Create a Paper Quill
A paper quill is a fun craft activity that can be made as a decorative element for a pen or you might want to use it as a stage prop or for photography. It's simple to make and yet it's up to you how elaborate you make the final design on the "quill".
Steps
- Select the paper. A piece of printer paper is usually a fine choice.
- Fold the paper in half. Outline a feather shape next to the fold. Draw the outline so that one side of the feather is straight and is formed on the fold, as shown in the image.
- Cut out the feather shape. There should be one piece consisting of two feathers, still joined on the fold.
- Color both sides so that, when folded, only the outside of the feathers have been colored. This step can be as simple or as elaborate as wished; the image shown has recreated feather-like strokes using markers. Other ideas include calligraphy, watercolor paints or pencils, stencilling, stamping or even decoupage.
- Place a ballpoint pen onto the inside of one feather. The exact positioning will be dependent on the size and length of the ballpoint pen you've chosen; adjust it as needed.
- Remove the pen. Spray or adhere glue to both insides of the feather in the area where the pen will be attached.
- Place the pen back onto the now glued insides of the feathers. Carefully fold the feathers to meet, capturing the pen in the middle. Gently mold the section of the feathers that sit over the pen so that it wraps around the pen as shown.
- You can curl or bend the feather a little so that it won't seem so stiff.
- Allow to dry. Once dry, the paper quill is ready for use or for wrapping as a gift.
Tips
- Printer paper or similar thickness is best. Cardstock will probably be too stiff to fold.
- Look for pictures of different feathers online to copy their textures and colors.
- If you'd like, you can make an ink pot out of an old, or broken pencil sharpener.
- If giving as a gift, consider writing the recipient's name on the quill using calligraphy and metallic ink.
Warnings
- These paper quills are very easily broken. Use with care.
Things You'll Need
- Paper
- Pencil
- Ballpoint pen (Papermate is best)
- Adhesive glue suitable for paper
- Markers or other decorating implements
- Scissors
Related Articles
- Make a Quill Pen out of a Feather
- Make an Ink Pot and Quill
- Write With a Feather Quill
- Make a Wooden Pen
- Make a Pen Last Longer
