Ostrich Tuft
An ostrich tuft is a short, slim ostrich feather spray, like a compact mini boa, that adds soft movement to a costume, hat or accessory. Sold by the piece.
- Sold: by the piece
- In stock: White and black, ships right away
- Other colors: On request (some in stock) or custom dyed in 2–3 weeks (rush available)
- Minimum: No minimum; larger orders can qualify for better pricing
Want to see it in person? Book a showroom visit at 144 W 37th St, Monday–Thursday.
About Ostrich Tuft
Tufts are built from soft ostrich plumes gathered into a short, narrow spray. They are easy to sew or glue onto a piece where a full boa would be too much.
Our standard tufts come in white and black, with other colors available on request.
The ostrich tuft was invented by the legendary costume designer Bob Mackie.
About Bob Mackie
Bob Mackie (1939–2026) was an American costume and fashion designer, nicknamed the “Sultan of Sequins” and the “Rajah of Rhinestones.” He designed every costume for The Carol Burnett Show and many of Cher’s most famous looks, including the feathered headdress she wore to the 1986 Academy Awards, and dressed stars such as Diana Ross and Tina Turner.
He also designed feathered showgirl costumes for the Las Vegas revues Hallelujah Hollywood and Jubilee! Over his career he won nine Emmy Awards and a Tony Award for The Cher Show, and earned three Oscar nominations.
Specifications
| Feather type | Ostrich |
|---|---|
| Sold | by the piece |
| Sizes | Ask for current lengths. |
| Colors in stock | White and black (ships right away) |
| Other colors | Assorted colors: available on request (some in stock) or custom dyed to any Pantone or swatch in 2–3 weeks. Rush jobs are available on request. |
| Lead time | In-stock colors ship right away. Custom dye and custom work: about 2–3 weeks. Rush jobs are available on request. |
| Minimum order | No minimum, including custom dye colors. Larger orders can qualify for better pricing. |
| Sourcing | Captive-bred birds; never wild or endangered species |
| Supplier | Dersh Feather, New York City (est. 1918) |
Customization
- Custom dye colors (2–3 weeks, rush available)
- Curled tufts
- Glitter or mylar accents
- Custom lengths
Custom work, including custom dye, extra length, extra ply, glitter or mylar, and curling, takes about 2–3 weeks. Rush jobs are available on request.
Popular uses
- Costume and showgirl pieces
- Millinery and headpieces
- Shoe and bag trims
- Cat toys and pet products
- Décor and displays
- Carnival costumes
Responsibly sourced
Every feather we supply comes from birds bred in captivity. We source responsibly, follow recognized animal welfare standards, and never use feathers from wild or endangered species.
How to order
Request a quote with the quantity, color and any customization you need, and we will reply with pricing and a timeline for your order. We offer wholesale pricing for businesses and volume orders, and samples are available. You are also welcome to see our feathers in person at our showroom in New York City’s Garment District, 144 W 37th St, Suite 4B, by appointment. Browse more Feather Tufts.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a tuft and a boa?
A tuft is a short, slim spray of feathers sold by the piece; a boa is a long, full rope of feathers.
Is Ostrich Tuft in stock?
Yes. We keep it in stock in white and black, and in-stock orders ship right away. Other colors are available on request (some are in stock) or can be custom dyed in about 2–3 weeks. Rush jobs are available on request.
How do I get pricing?
Click Request a Quote and tell us the quantity (sold by the piece), color and any customization. We reply with pricing, including wholesale pricing for businesses and volume orders. Samples are available.
Is there a minimum order?
There is no minimum, including on custom dye colors, and larger orders can qualify for better pricing.
Are your feathers ethically sourced?
Every feather we supply comes from birds bred in captivity. We source responsibly, follow recognized animal welfare standards, and never use feathers from wild or endangered species.