I own a salon and we've been offering feather extensions since April. This trend has brought a lot of business into the salon. The stylist will group together several feathers of different colors and textures. Sometimes, she adds hair bling in with the feathers and then crimps them into the hair. We use only silicone lined crimp beads which are easier on the human hair. Metal ones will not only rust but they will cut the hair. Clients are allowed to select their colors, lengths, and sizes of feathers. Most are going for the wider feathers lately as they make more of a statement than the skinny ones. Our prices are 1 for $10 or 5 for $40, prices will be adjusted according to the quantity of feathers over 5. I've heard of salons charging much more, but not many charging less. There's also little shops along the Gulf Coast that will put them in your hair. Most of those are done by summer workers, not professional stylists. I've had feathers in my hair for several months. I love the look and they're so easy to care for, I hardly know they are there.
Being a chicken lover and keeper myself, I've considered growing a breed with long hackle. But most of the research I've seen has lead me to believe that the farmers earn every penny. Rumor has it these roos are really mean and will stop at nothing to claw your eyes out when you enter their coop to clean and feed daily. I've got two kids at my house and their safety is my first priority. That's why we have Brahma and Serama, sweet chickens as pets!
I'm interested to see how this trend plays out. I know the hair extension market will soften at some point but the fly fishermen will always keep the farmers busy. If anyone on BYC is growing these roos and is looking for distribution or sales, PM me.
Tina
