Don Featherstone’s Original Turkey Blow Mold: A Classic Thanksgiving Tradition

Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold: A Holiday Tradition

For over 50 years, Don Featherstone’s iconic turkey blow mold has been a staple of American Thanksgiving celebrations. The whimsical, oversized turkey has been featured in countless homes and businesses, and has become a symbol of the holiday season.

Featherstone’s turkey was first produced in 1963, and quickly became a hit. The mold was based on a real turkey that Featherstone had seen at a farm, and he wanted to create a festive decoration that would bring joy to people’s homes.

The turkey blow mold is made from a lightweight plastic, and is inflated with air. It measures approximately 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and features a bright orange body, a white head, and a red wattle. The turkey is also adorned with a festive bow tie.

The turkey blow mold is typically displayed in a window or on a porch, and is often accompanied by other holiday decorations, such as pumpkins, cornstalks, and Christmas lights. It is a reminder of the coming holiday season, and brings joy to people of all ages.

Year Company Description
1967 Stork Club First turkey blow mold
1969 Stork Club First flocked turkey blow mold
1971 Stork Club First light-up turkey blow mold

History of the Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold

The Don Featherstone turkey blow mold is a classic American holiday decoration that has been around for over 50 years. It was first created in 1965 by Don Featherstone, a self-taught artist and inventor from Michigan. Featherstone was inspired to create the turkey blow mold after seeing a similar decoration at a craft fair. He made a few modifications to the design, and the turkey blow mold was born.

The turkey blow mold quickly became a popular holiday decoration, and it was soon being sold in stores all over the United States. In the 1970s and 1980s, the turkey blow mold was a must-have for any holiday celebration. However, by the 1990s, its popularity had begun to decline.

There are a few reasons for the decline in popularity of the turkey blow mold. One reason is that it became increasingly difficult to find. Many of the factories that produced the turkey blow mold closed down, and the ones that remained were unable to keep up with the demand. Another reason for the decline in popularity is that people’s tastes changed. In the 1990s, people began to prefer more modern and minimalist holiday decorations.

Despite the decline in popularity, the turkey blow mold has never completely disappeared. It is still a popular holiday decoration, and it can be found in stores and online. In recent years, there has been a resurgence in interest in the turkey blow mold, and it is once again becoming a popular choice for holiday decorations.

Design of the Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold

The Don Featherstone turkey blow mold is made from a single piece of plastic. It is shaped like a turkey, and it has a wide, flat base. The turkey’s head is turned to the side, and its beak is open. The turkey’s body is covered in feathers, and it has a long, pointed tail. The turkey blow mold is typically painted red, white, and blue.

The design of the turkey blow mold is simple but effective. It is a classic American holiday decoration that is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. The turkey blow mold is also a symbol of Thanksgiving, and it reminds us of the importance of family and togetherness.

Materials Used to Make the Turkey Blow Mold

The Don Featherstone turkey blow mold is made from a single piece of plastic. The plastic is typically polyethylene, which is a type of thermoplastic polymer. Polyethylene is a strong and durable material that is resistant to heat and chemicals. It is also lightweight and easy to work with.

The turkey blow mold is made using a process called blow molding. In this process, a hollow plastic tube is heated until it becomes soft and pliable. The tube is then placed into a mold, and air is pumped into it. The air inflates the tube, causing it to take on the shape of the mold. The mold is then cooled, and the finished product is removed.

Manufacturing Process of the Turkey Blow Mold

The manufacturing process of the turkey blow mold is relatively simple. The first step is to create a mold. The mold is typically made from metal or plastic. The mold is then used to create a hollow plastic tube. The tube is then heated until it becomes soft and pliable. The tube is then placed into the mold, and air is pumped into it. The air inflates the tube, causing it to take on the shape of the mold. The mold is then cooled, and the finished product is removed.

The turkey blow mold is typically painted after it is manufactured. The paint is applied using a spray gun. The paint is typically a combination of acrylic and polyurethane. The paint is applied in several coats, and each coat is allowed to dry before the next coat is applied.

Design Features of the Turkey Blow Mold

The Don Featherstone turkey blow mold has a number of design features that make it a classic American holiday decoration. The turkey’s head is turned to the side, and its beak is open. This gives the turkey a friendly and inviting appearance. The turkey’s body is covered in feathers, and it has a long, pointed tail. The turkey blow mold is typically painted red, white, and blue. These colors are associated with the American flag, and they represent the patriotism and pride that many Americans feel during the holiday season.

Symbolism of the Turkey Blow Mold

The turkey blow mold is a symbol of Thanksgiving. It is a reminder of the importance of family and togetherness. The turkey is a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, and the turkey blow mold is a way to celebrate this tradition. The turkey blow mold

Cultural Significance of the Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold

The Don Featherstone turkey blow mold is a cultural icon that has been a part of American holiday celebrations for over 50 years. The mold, which depicts a large, colorful turkey, is often seen in yards and on porches during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons.

The turkey blow mold was created by Don Featherstone in 1965. Featherstone was a sculptor who was working for the Union Products Company in New Jersey when he was asked to create a new holiday decoration. He came up with the idea for the turkey blow mold, and the rest is history.

The turkey blow mold quickly became a popular holiday decoration. It was featured in magazines and newspapers, and it was even mentioned in a song by the Beach Boys. The mold has been produced in a variety of colors and sizes, and it has become a symbol of American culture.

The turkey blow mold is more than just a holiday decoration. It is a reminder of the importance of family and tradition. It is a symbol of hope and optimism. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always something to be thankful for.

The turkey blow mold is a piece of folk art that has been passed down from generation to generation. It is a reminder of our shared history and culture. It is a symbol of the American spirit.

The turkey blow mold as a holiday decoration

The turkey blow mold is a traditional holiday decoration that is often seen in yards and on porches during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. The mold is typically made of plastic or fiberglass, and it is filled with air to create a three-dimensional figure. The turkey blow mold is often brightly colored, and it features a variety of festive decorations.

The turkey blow mold is a popular holiday decoration because it is both festive and fun. It is a great way to add a touch of holiday cheer to your home or yard. The turkey blow mold is also a great way to get the kids involved in the holiday festivities.

The turkey blow mold as a symbol of American culture

The turkey blow mold is a symbol of American culture for a number of reasons. First, the turkey is a traditional American food. It is often served at Thanksgiving dinner, and it is also a popular dish during the Christmas season. Second, the turkey blow mold is a reminder of the importance of family and tradition. It is a symbol of the American values of home and hearth. Third, the turkey blow mold is a symbol of hope and optimism. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always something to be thankful for.

The turkey blow mold is a unique and iconic American symbol. It is a reminder of our shared history and culture. It is a symbol of the American spirit.

The turkey blow mold as a piece of folk art

The turkey blow mold is a piece of folk art that has been passed down from generation to generation. The mold is a reminder of our shared history and culture. It is a symbol of the American spirit.

The turkey blow mold is a work of art that is both functional and beautiful. It is a reminder of the importance of family and tradition. It is a symbol of hope and optimism.

The turkey blow mold is a piece of folk art that is unique to America. It is a reminder of our shared history and culture. It is a symbol of the American spirit.

The turkey blow mold as a collectible

The turkey blow mold is a collectible that has been increasing in value in recent years. The mold is a reminder of our shared history and culture. It is a symbol of the American spirit.

The turkey blow mold is a popular collectible because it is both iconic and rare. The mold is no longer produced, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to find. The turkey blow mold is also a valuable collectible because it is a reminder of our shared history and culture. It is a symbol of the American spirit.

The turkey blow mold is a collectible that is both iconic and rare. It is a reminder of our shared history and culture. It is a symbol of the American spirit.

Conservation of the Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold

The Don Featherstone turkey blow mold is a cultural icon that is worth preserving. The mold is a reminder of our shared history and culture. It is a symbol of the American spirit.

There are a number of threats to the turkey blow mold. The mold is made of plastic or fiberglass, and it is susceptible to damage from the elements. The mold can also be damaged by pests and rodents.

The efforts to conserve the turkey blow mold include:

  • Storing the mold in a cool, dry place
  • Protecting the mold from pests and rodents
  • Repairing the mold if it is

    Q: What is a Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold?

A Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold is a large, hollow plastic turkey that is blown into a mold. It is typically used as a decoration for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

**Q: How big is a Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold?

A Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold is typically about 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.

**Q: Where can I buy a Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold?

Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Molds can be purchased online or at retail stores. They typically range in price from $50 to $100.

**Q: How do I care for a Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold?

To care for a Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold, simply dust it with a dry cloth and store it in a cool, dry place when not in use.

**Q: What are some common problems with Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Molds?

Some common problems with Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Molds include:

  • The mold may crack or break.
  • The paint may chip or peel.
  • The turkey may become dirty or dusty.

**Q: How can I fix a Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold that is cracked or broken?

If your Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold is cracked or broken, you can try to repair it with a sealant or adhesive. However, it is important to note that the repair may not be permanent.

**Q: How can I clean a Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold that is dirty or dusty?

To clean a Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold that is dirty or dusty, simply wipe it down with a dry cloth. If the mold is particularly dirty, you can dampen the cloth with a mild detergent.

**Q: What are some other uses for a Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Mold?

In addition to being used as a decoration, Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Molds can also be used as:

  • A planter
  • A storage container
  • A pet bed
  • A Halloween decoration

**Q: Are Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Molds safe for children?

Yes, Don Featherstone Turkey Blow Molds are safe for children. However, it is important to note that the mold may be sharp, so children should be supervised when playing with it.

Don Featherstone’s turkey blow mold is a classic holiday decoration that has been enjoyed by families for generations. The mold was created in 1950 by Featherstone, a self-taught artist and inventor. The turkey is made from a single piece of hollow plastic, and it is inflated with air to create its shape. The mold is still in production today, and it is available in a variety of colors and sizes.

The turkey blow mold has become a popular symbol of Thanksgiving and Christmas. It is often used as a centerpiece for holiday decorations, and it is also a popular gift item. The turkey blow mold is a reminder of the importance of family and tradition, and it is a cherished part of many holiday celebrations.

Don Featherstone’s turkey blow mold is a unique and iconic holiday decoration. It is a symbol of family, tradition, and the joy of the holiday season. The turkey blow mold is a timeless classic that will continue to be enjoyed by families for generations to come.

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Kelsey Hammons
Kelsey Hammons
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.

I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.

Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.

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