Threads 25: How to collect Porcupine quills

Quill Basketry is a wonderful technique that was developed by our indigenous people. It is very detailed, and finely worked, usually on birchbark.

I have been fortunate to be shown how to use these quilts for decoration, and I will explain in future how to make a small quill medallion.

This exquisite birch bark basket was made in the Muskoka district north of Toronto during the early 90s.

In the meantime, you need to know how to collect porcupine quills!  It is quite simple, as long as you can find a road-killed porcupine. In preparation, keep an old pair of blue jeans in the back of your car so you are ready if you happen to find one.

Fortunately, you do not need to pull them out individually. You just take out your old bluejeans, spread them on the poor dead animal, and tread on it. The quills will all stick onto the fabric, which you can fold up carefully and take home Later, you can pull them out gently with a pair of pliers. 

Top view porcupine quill birch bark basket.

You will find the quills vary in size. Some are thick and long while others are small and flimsy. I think it depends on whether the animal is moulting and growing new quills or alternatively it may be a young animal. Ideally, you want long straight strong quilts.

P.S. You should know that the quills have a little barb on the ends of them that can stick into you and have to be pulled out.

Quills make a wonderfully protective coat, and I think the only animal that can kill them, in this area, is a fisher.

Many dog owners, myself included, end up with a dog who has a mouth full of quills. In fact, it might be worth asking your local vet to save a collection of quilts for you!

Collecting quills using old jeans and thick gloves