As there is interest in this info I will began. Will be posting in several parts to cover different aspects of the methods or materials. The methods are those that I use and my vary from established methods.
Will start with the equipment: Dye: Most any type of dye can be used and most any color can be found in one type or the other. 1) Veniard dye is very good and only a small amount is required per dye batch - the initial cost is higher than other types. 2) Fabric dye - have used several brands with good results. The amount of dye required will vary slightly between brands used. 3) Food color - have only use in blue but had good results. Dyed some hen capes and the result is a bright light blue. (as used on salmon flies) 4) Kool Aid - have not used this my self but have seen some feathers that were dyed with this. Is food color but will also leave the material smelling like the Kool Aid and may have the flavor also. Other Equipment: 1) white vinegar - sets the dye - helps bond the dye to the material 2) plastic container - I use ice cream containers (2 liter) and for small batches a 1 liter container. Needs to have a lid 3) plastic strainer - for rinsing materials 4) fork - used to remove materials from hot dye batch 5) Hair dryer - to dry a test sample to see results and check color 6) liquid dish soap - to rinse materials to remove any oils or dye that are not bonded to the material. 7) newspaper - used when drying materials 8) Ultra Wisk (concentrated liquid laundry detergent) - works great for cleaning up dye spills. ;) 9) Microwave - to heat the dye batch Bleaching: Items 2 - 7 are also used when bleaching House Hold Ammonia Peroxide - I use 35%
