What are banded quills?

Banded quills are a type of quill used in traditional ink writing, typically made from bird feathers, such as those from geese or swans. They are characterized by their distinctive markings or bands along the shaft, which can add a decorative element to the writing instrument. Historically, quills were popular for their flexibility and ability to produce fine lines, making them ideal for calligraphy and detailed writing. Today, banded quills are often used in crafts and artistic applications rather than for practical writing.