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There are a couple of ways to string up your bustle. For your primary -- either form a loop at the end of the feather by cutting and folding the quill up or attaching a leather "loop" and attaching it with glue and covering with thread, cloth, etc.
Lay your feathers out in the proper order (how you want them to appear on the bustle) and thread either strong leather thong or even a shoe string through the loops. Your thong used as the primary string is then attached to your bustle base -- I usually tie it in 3-4 places to the base. Once strung, you then need to look closely at the spacing of your feathers an work with them until you get the appearance right. Many modern traditional dancers use spacers (beads) to seperate the feathers and give the appearance they want. These spacers/beads are usually strung on the secondary or bridal string.
Where you place the bridal string is a matter of personal choice and some debate. I suggest at least six inches from the primary string. A lot depends on the legnth of the feathers and whether or not you used dowel extenders on your feathers.
Once you decide where you want your secondary lace to appear, mark each feather accordingly -- measure each feather carefully. Then it's simply a matter of putting a hole through the quill -- use an awl first, then a very small flat head screw driver if necessary. Be careful to punch the hole through the quill without bending it, breaking it or splitting it unnecessarily.
With the holes made, arrange the feathers again and recheck your spacing, then start putting your secondary lace (thin leather thong or other material of choice) through the holes...adding beads as necessary between the feathers to keep the spacing like you want it.
If this has totally confused you, check out some of the books available thathave illustrations. Crazy Crow and other trading companies carry a book by Scott Evans on the northern traditional dancer that I am sure will help.
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