e, and scarlet flowers are best
made with the plumage of the red ibis, which can generally be had of a
bird-fancier or bird-stuffer, who will give directions how it should
be applied.

[WE SELDOM REPENT OF HAVING EATEN TOO LITTLE.]

2521. Lilac.

About two teaspoonfuls of cudbear into about a quart of boiling water;
let it simmer a few minutes before you put in the feathers. A small
quantity of cream of tartar turns the colour from lilac to amethyst.

2522. Black; Crimson.

_See Instructions upon Dyeing, par._ 2682, _et seq_.

2523. Preparation of Feathers for Dyeing.

The feathers must be put into hot water, and allowed to drain before
they are put into the dyes. After they are taken out of the dye, rinse
them two or three times in clear cold water (except the red, which
must only be done once), then lay them on a tray, over which a cloth
has been spread, before a good fire; when they begin to dry and
unfold, draw each feather gently between your thumb and finger, until
it regains its proper shape.

2524. Leaves of the Flowers.

These are made of green feathers, cut like those of the natural
flower, and serrated at the edge with a very small pair of scissors.
For the calyx of a moss-rose the down is left on the feather, and is a
very good representation of the moss on the natural flower.

2525. Waxen Flowers and Fruit.

There is no art more easily acquired, nor more encouraging in its
immediate results, than that of modelling flowers and fruit in wax.
The art, however, is attended by this draw-back--that the materials
required are somewhat expensive.

2526. Materials for Wax Flowers.

The appliances required for commencing the making of waxen flowers
will cost from 20s. to 30s., and may be obtained at most fancy
repositories in large towns. Persons wishing to commence the art would
do well to inquire for particulars, and see specimens of materials;
because in this, as in every other pursuit, there are novelties and
improvements being introduced, which no book can give an idea of.

2527. Petals and Leaves of Wax Flowers.

Petals and leaves of wax flowers are made of sheets of coloured wax,
which may be purchased in packets of assorted colours.

2528. Stems.

The stems are made of wire of suitable thicknesses, covered with silk,
and overlaid with wax; and the leaves are frequently made by thin