Wash and rub it thoroughly just as though you were shampooing it. Rinse all the soap out in the second bowl. Shake the ostrich dry. The tips may then be curled slightly, although at present most ostrich is used straight. The best method for the amateur to use for curling ostrich is the heat method.
Heat gives a soft curl just as moisture straightens the ostrich fronds.
Hold the plumes over a low-burning gas flame, in the smoke from burning sugar, or over a hot steam radiator. Sugar placed in an iron skillet and allowed to burn sends up a heavy smoke which is admirably adapted for the purpose. Always try a few ostrich fronds to test the force of the heat lest it burn the ostrich. A novice is apt to break the fiber if she uses a curling knife. In handling aigrettes, be careful not to break the center stem or quill.