Fish fins

[Todd K]

     Hi guys, I'm fairly new to fish taxidermy and I have a question to ask. I have mounted 3 walleyes recently. I have 2 painted and one more to go. I noticed some hairline cracking on the fins and was wandering if someone would be able to help me out.  I got the fin backing paper from Van Dykes. I brushed on Mod Podge then applied the paper. Then brushed a couple more coats. Is it the mod podge that is causing the cracks? I am using Lifetone laquer paints and Liqiud crystal. Is there something better to use for the fins? Thanks, Todd

[Jason O]

i am willing to bet it is your liquid crystal,when i used to use that ,i would put it on to heavy and cabam ,cracks in the paint,
i never experience that on the fins but on the back and head
somebody correct me if i am wrong

[Todd K]

   Ya know, now that I think about it, that might be whats causing the problem. I first thought it was the mod podge and wandered what else I could use. I did not bend the fins either. They just cracked on their own. Anyone else?

[bdahyrt]

I have never used mod podge B4 on fins but I do know that it is water based and liquid crystal can be pretty harsh on anything water based especially water based paint.

[Todd K]

   I thought it would be ok because I use it to texture deer noses and I use the Liquid Crystal over it.

[jbianco]

Hi Todd,
I use Elmers Glue and silkspan. I've never had a problem with it.

[mike d]

I used Liquid Crystal for years, the problem comes from putting on the first coat too heavy.
Turn your paint knob way down and put on a couple of real light flash coats first, give 15 minutes between them.
Then turn the fluid adjustment back up to normal and put on a good wet coat, or two if you want.
Wait 15 minutes between coats.

[TrailsEnd]

It's not the Mod Podge. I've used that stuff for many, many years and never had a problem, and I still use it. If you look into the Archives you will find numerous complaints about Liquid Crystal nightmares. I have a full bottle of it and I'm afraid to use it, especially on a customer's fish.

[Todd K]

     Thanks to all for the help. My PC has been down for a few days and we just had it fixed today. I'm gonna try some different things on my next fish. I wonder if Super fish sealer over the Mod Podge then the Liquid Crystal would yeild a different outcome?
Thanks again, Todd

[hunterray2002]

I hafe to agree with the liquid crystal complaints as well. i have tried it and tossed it. . I still use my krylon crystal clear. and tripple thick. as well and a little water and modgepodge for fin finishing and mouth work.

[Todd K]

  Ray, how the heck are ya? I tried the Krylon tripple thick and the same thing happened! I even put a real light coat on first, and still had the little cracks! any other ideas? Thanks, Todd