Just search "make feather Damascus" on You Tube for the basic ideas. There are some good videos there.

As far as making damascus, where do you currently place your skill level? Have you..... made random pattern? Have you made twist pattern? Have you made multiple bar and/or composite damascus?

I ask, because all the skills necessary to produce all of those, are relevant when making a feather pattern. The simplest "feather" is made of straight laminates, cut and stacked in such a way that all the layers are running horizontal, approx the width you'd like of the finished feather pattern billet.....then a semi dull hot cutter is used to cut the layers across the horizontal layers, cutting and stretching layers until the billet is cut in half lengthwise....then the billet is immediately welded back together along the cut you just made. Confused yet? <img src=' http://www.americanbladesmith.com/ipboard/public/style_emoticons//smile.gi f' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':)' />

The best looking feather patterns are made by first creating "W" pattern, then cutting/stacking/welding/cutting and rewelding as mentioned above......

Likely the biggest issue that most Bladesmiths have with creating feather pattern is keeping the final lengthwise "split" centered/even....and/or if doing the split with a press or power hammer....having enough throat to accomplish the job.

I have made random, ladder, multi-bar, and raindrop Damascus. I am by no means an expert. I have tried on several occasions to find some feather Damascus videos on YouTube that go into the detail that I need to no avail.