My 10 year old son has expressed an interest in taxidermy. I am wondering if there is an easy way to get him started at a low cost until we know if he wants to continue into it? Any info would be appreciated. Thank you.
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Michael,
Take your son to the library and read up on the subject. If the interest is still there get one of the squirrel mounting kits from WASCO, Van Dyke's (now on line) or any of the other suppliers.
The kits will minimize the expense and squirrels a plentiful and tough skinned. Give him a hand and take your time. Even if he decides that it's not what he really wants you'll still have the experience and it didn't cost a lot. If he does want to continue then getting the books and videos that are available is a good way to learn and progress.
Good luck,
Glenn
workshops for beginners too. You may wish to call a few in your area to see if they do. Question how long they've been doing this and ask for references. I know a local guy here in the Chicago area use to offer beginners classes to get the young folks interested and involved in taxidermy. He'd do it via seminar format and would even supply a speciman - typically a largemouth bass that the students would complete from start to finish. By doing it via seminar costs were kept to a minimum. I don't think he made a lot of money from it but he's a great teacher and I think he really enjoyed it. Ask around - you may find someone that does indeed train in your area. I personally think as long as it's a reputable taxidermist that is also a good teacher you're going to get a much less frustrating experience trying to do things via books and videos especially for a ten year old. Just my opinion though... Good Luck!
is join your state association. I live in Texas and we have a great youth program. I think most state associations do....but if your's does'nt than maybe you could help them get it started. We always have youth seminars during our convention...they allow the parents to attend their seminars and teach the youth something they may not have already learned in mom or dad's shop. I have 4 children 6yr.,9yr.,12yr.,and 16yr. Two of which do taxidermy. Both have placed in Louisianna and Texas competition for the last two years. Start them young and theres no telling how far they will go.