Can a beginner really do a nice mount with a kit?

I have always been intrigued in Taxidermy and think it would be a satisfying feeling to mount one of my own deer. I'm not looking to quit my day job, I just think it would be a fun challenge. That said, how feasible is it for a novice to be able to tackle a shoulder mount? I've seen those Kits from WASCO and would be willing to gamble a $100 bucks just to see if I could pull it off. Any experience with these kits? Any recommendations for videos or books that you might consider indespensible? Also, I've noticed lots of "Tanned Capes" on Ebay. I have a rack from an old deer that I would love to "Bring back to life" Would buying a cape be a good idea or would this entire idea be more trouble than it is worth? Any thoughts?

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Dan, if you can afford the money, give it a try.

If you have the cash and are willing to put in the time and effort, go for it. After all many state, national, and World taxidermy champs started out as self-taught taxidermists. They obviously honed their skill on the way to their championships, but many started with methods much more crude than today's kits and videos.

Best of luck

JUST DO IT.

I recommend Sallie Dahmes Breakthrough Whitetail Deer Manual and a kit. Read the manual before you start, but the bare essentials and you will be hooked. I know I was (am).

won compitition with a kit

I began doing taxidermy with a kit from WASCO. The first deer head I mounted won me a second place ribbon and I did it from the kit. It is a great way to get started and make a nice mount

Thanks for the encouragement, any thoughts on buying a cape?

Is using a tanned cape a good way to start?