Home Made Quill
And Ink

Have you ever written in the old time style, using a quill- made from a feather- and ink?

Here's how to make not only a simple quill, but your own ink as well!

Plus find out some more about this fascinating writing style.

** Adult supervision should be given for this project. **

WHAT YOU NEED:

Large feathers (tail or wing feathers from a large bird work best)
10 walnut shells
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
Hammer
Scissors or craft knife
Old rag
Saucepan (may be better to use an old one, in case of staining)
Jar with lid (for storing ink)
Fine strainer

WHAT TO DO:

Place the walnut shells in the old rag and, using hammer, crush the shells.

Put the shells and water in the saucepan and bring to a boil. (adults should help with this part, especially for younger children)
Simmer 45 minutes, or until dark brown. Much of the water will evaporate in the process.

Remove the ink from the stove (turn off!) and let it cool.

Strain the liquid into the jar. A chux or other coarse weave cloth placed in the strainer will also help strain out the finer specks of shell.

It may be easier to strain first into a larger container, such as a jug, then transfer to the jar.

Add the vinegar and salt, to aid in preserving the ink.

Use scissors or knife to cut the end of the feather so it's on an angle.
For younger children, adults should do this part.

Now you are ready to use your "quill" and ink to write letters or messages!

Do one, or more, of the following:

• Make a poster or scrap book discussing the history of quills and inks,using your own to do the writing.

• Or write a diary/journal as if in the style of a child living in the times when quills and inks were commonly used. Report on special happenings in your world and life in this past time period.
  
  
• Write a series of letters, as if from someone living in a past time period.

• Learn fancy writing, known as calligraphy, and create a beautiful work using this.
  What is the history of calligraphy?

• Create a project on famous literary and other historical figures who often used quill and ink in their works.