I ran into an issue with a coyote that I purchased. I could not find a mannikin (in the position) that I liked with the dimensions of this pup. She seemed to be long and thin. I would like to add around 3 inches to the length, but I have never done an alteration like this (or if will even look okay to add that much length). Do any of the local chain stores sell the 2 part foam to lengthen the mannikin or will I need to order it from a taxidermy supplier? I am not in a rush for it, but if is available locally that would help me to start this project sooner.
Any info or methods recommended would be grateful. I have never done a lifesize this large...
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A animal relaxes a lot whenits dead, lose of muscle tension sometimes make critters look like they are longer than when they were alive.
Try the hide on the form before you make any alterations, yuo may need this slack skin to taxi the hide into place!
You will have to order the foam from one of the supply companies.
A animal relaxes a lot whenits dead, lose of muscle tension sometimes make critters look like they are longer than when they were alive.
Try the hide on the form before you make any alterations, yuo may need this slack skin to taxi the hide into place!
You will have to order the foam from one of the supply companies.
I did test fit it. I would have mounted it if the skin was a little loose, but it appears like it will be excessively loose. It fits perfectly in width, but that is where I was coming up with the issues. The width got too large with a longer mannikin...
Or maybe I should just attempt to mount it loose and tuck it where I can (armpit and leg reliefe cuts maybe?)
I would just use a piece of carving foam instead of the liquid foam.Cut the form in half,glue in the 3" extension,then rasp it flush with the surrounding area.
Sandles, I like LT's idea but you can also add length by attatching the 2 parts with 3 wires holding them the proper distance apart, wrap around with duct tape and fill with spray can of foam insulation such as "Great Stuff". Now, that's not the same quality of foam but for small jobs it works fine. After it sets (remember it expands a good bit)trim or rasp off the excess.
3" seems like a lot to add to the length of a pup to me, assuming everything else fits right. Probably I would add maybe 1/2 of that and mount the critter using NO adhessive on the body. As the skin dries, each day taxi the skin until it lays right. In would think the skin would draw up enough to take care of an inch or two of extra length. Enjoy, Aaron H.
Sandals,
There is a two part foam sold in model train stores under the name 'Mountains In Minutes'. The density is comparable to that of the standard two part foams sold by the supply companies, which are cheaper even with shipping, but if you need it NOW this is the fastest way to get it. I've used the method that Aaron recommeds many times, not only for body but leg alterations as well. I've even used that method to increas the overall dimensions of a sitting muskrat form by approximatly 25%. Glenn
That technique works fine. Also...get the Jonas MAMMAL Manual...has a complete detailed photo illustrated chapter on doing wqhat you want to accomplish...from one of the True Masters in the profession.
Or ETCC's KWIK-FIX Cut the shin in haff wit scissors...cut off tree inches...den staple it back togedder...After mountin it...cover the staples wit skotch tape or duck tape...It'll look like it's wearin a belt arounf it's wasste...Werks fur me. I lernt dat frum Licec at his Taxydermy Emporium.
Always glad two help.
~ ETCC