mounting sheds

i searched the archives on the subject,couldn't find a lot. being retired and having more time than money,i would rather try making my own scull caps or try some other method of attatching sheds to manikins. one of the methods in the archives suggested using bondo/glass and sculpting on plywood backing.i tried this but it crumbled .sure could use some help. thanks

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DID YOU?

Did you add shreaded fiberglass to the bondo?

no i didn,t .

wasn't sure if bondo/glass mean't fiberglass or not.would you have time to shape this mixture before it sets?

Here Goes.

Since you have time This is the way to go. Sculpt a skull cap out of Bondo. of a size that can be used for a variety on antlers. sand the skull cap smooth with 220 grit or finer sandpaper. Once the skull cap is finished, put a heavy coat of wax on it. Then lay fiberglass material saturated in resin over the skull cap. do not over do the hardener, as it will make the glass brittle. Making sure to work out any air bubbles. Apply several layers until it is 1/4 to 3/8 inch thick. Allow to set. Then remove the sculpted skull cap. you now have a mold. this mold if cared for can be used to make many skull caps. wax the mold with a good release agent. Then mix fiberglass resin with shredded fiberglass, and pack it into the mold. Allow to dry, this may take over night or possibly longer. Remove the fiberglass skull cap from the mold. Drill 3/16 holes in the antler base of the skull cap, and install a 1/4" double ended lugs bolts. be sure to check the angle of the antlers you intend to use. So they will align properly. now drill 3/16" holes in the antlers, apply a bit of epoxy and screw them to the skull cap. This will be a strong mounting system for sheds. It will take some time initially, and you will have the investment of the materials. But if you do a lot of shed mounting you will easily recoup it.

Or.....

Make it easy and buy a shed connection that is made specifically for shed antlers. Most taxidermy suppliers carry them. WASCO has them for $33.95. Might make your task much easier. Good Luck. Peace- Jeff F.