Tying with dyed quills from bleached rooster hackle can be challenging if not downright frustrating if you use production quills that are already bleached and dyed. Here are some reasons NOT to buy quills from the major manufacturers. First the bleaching process burns the shiny coating on the quill itself if it is left in the bleach bath for too long. Second quills that have been left in bleach baths for too long also inherently crack no matter how long you soak them. Third you have no control whatsoever of your color ways. So what's the solution? Well you need to bleach them yourself. By bleaching quills yourself you are saving a ton of money and potential wasted time at your bench. If you do not have a copy of A.K. Bests “Production Fly Tying” get a copy! I started writing to A.K. almost 30 years ago and have a stack of letters from him explaining some of the intricacies of the process. I dye and bleach all of my quills as well as hackles, hen necks, t-base feathers, peacock quills, and dubbing. A.K. published this book in 1989 and this book was later followed up by “Dyeing and Bleaching” by A.K. Best a magnificent book with a wealth of recipes and an in-depth look on the entire process of being in control of your tying materials. Bleaching and dying is a simple process and can become an enjoyable aspect that compliments your fly tying adventures.
