The term 'prepared to feather' is a phrase used to describe someone who is ready to start a job. The crossword solution for this term is 'tarred, ' which refers to the process of applying tar to a surface in order to waterproof it. Tarring is often used in roofing and other construction projects, so someone who is 'prepared to feather' is likely referring to someone who is ready to begin a job involving tarring.