I'm thinking about learning taxidermy, but the problem is that I could not find a school in the state of Alabama that teaches it. The only one I found close was Louisana and I don't think my present employer would let me off for six weeks. Are their any other suggestions that some of you might have. Any feedback in this matter would be a good help. Thank you for taking the time to help out someone that's trying to get into taxidermy.
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Do you want to learn everything or do you want to specialize in something? From there, I would start visiting some shops and seeing what kind of quality is right for you. Talk to the owner(s) and see if they'd be willing to train you. Sometimes you'll get the secretive types that don't want to help. But, typically money talks and I'd bet somebody would be willing to train you. But be prepared to pay some money to get good quality training. And, make sure up front that you both know what you're getting for your money. Having the teacher supply the specimens would be a plus as it's sometimes tough to find stuff to work on when starting out.
One on one training with a good teacher that does quality work is a pretty tough situation to beat - even if you had schools close to you. I'm sure some folks would disagree but I feel that you will learn the most this way. Instead of having 8 other people competing for your teachers' time, now you only have one - yourself. Plus, you'll learn the business aspects of running a taxidermy business better from a person who has proven him or herself. The main ingredient in this whole philosophy is to be able to find a good teacher that does quality work. With schools, the teachers have obviously proven that they know what they're doing and this uncertainty would be eliminated. Since you don't have a school near you, the point is moot. So, start talking to the local taxidermists and express your interest.
Another option would be books and videos and some seminars. Some of the big names out there run short 1-5 day seminars that cover more advanced techniques. Once you get the basics down via videos and PRACTICE, then you could think about travelling for more advanced seminars. Check with your local DNR first to see what (if any) kind of license(s) you need in Bama to practice on your own stuff. In many states, you don't need any permits to mount your own animals. Oh well, there's my opinion for what it's worth - good luck!
Jeffrey,
This site is an excellent start, I know I've spent no less than 100 hours here. It will give you a good start. Before I found Tax.net, I thought I needed about $2,000 to get started learning on my own. Start small, get a squirrel video, get a squirrel, spend $12 on supplies and start learning.
If your SURE you want to spend the next 30 years doing this, then use this site (search) to research your options. There are several options, research, don't jump right into debt.
If you THINK you want to make a living, or just start a hobbie, there is pleanty to learn for little or no investment. Then you can always go to school or go to work for someone later.
This site is the best thing for someone in your shoes, all you ever wanted to know, for free.
Good luck