Craw Fish mounds

[FurandFin]

I collected several natural craw fish mounds from a muddy field this past week. The mounds are all between 6-10" in hight, I would like to use them in a Competition base next Spring. My question, is there a method of preservation to aid in preventing degradation?? maybe sealing them or clear spray adhesive? Any ideas would be appreciated......Thanks Jim B.

[tlbullfrog]

I'm definately not experienced with using these mounds in a mount, but my first thought was how brittle the mounds become when dry. I guess as long as you handle them carefully (both during the mount and when moving the display) it should be okay. Not sure how you'd seal it though. Wonder if you could brush on something like Elmers glue that would adhere, seal, and not leave a noticeable coating. (?)

If I were going to do something like this, I think I would make my own mound using scrap foam from forms, and use the original mounds as references. This would take care of the chance of busting the mound, and would also decrease the weight of your mount.

[Ravenson]

Just a random thought but what about makeing a mold and casting them.  I you are interested I could look arround and see if I can find som nice ones to mold.  It should not be too hard.

Jeff

[3daddysinc.]

F&F,  we make our own here at the shop, that way we know that they will be there for the long haul.
Simply use the mound in question (we have pics on hand for ref's) as your ref.
Then use a can of "great stuff foam crack filler and insulation" to make your small round pods or balls of dirt. Just test the flow on your can of foam to experiment w the size of your mud ball. Once you get the hang of it , just shoot the mound in the shape and configuration you want.
( the foam doesnt really expand all that much) Ahter about 15 mins it is not tacky and you can control the size of the mound somewhat.
It will be completely set in about 4 hrs. (the instructions say
Once its dry take whatever "DRY dirt you have to use and mix it to a paste consistance w either elmers glue or mod podge and paint it on your mounds. It will keep a wet look this way and will not fall apart.

[coon hunter]

I had Thought about doing the same thing.

[cypresslake]

Yall have me wanting to try it now Thanks