Is it possible to learn to be a taxidermist w/o going to a school.
Is there videos or books I can buy to learn such as a step by step or taxidermist for idiots type book.
Thanks,
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I learned taxidermy off of videos and books, and got a lot of help from this site. Van Dykes, McKenzie, and WASCO all sell lots of learning materials. WASCO even sells a booklet course for $19.95. Good luck
Nina
Watch some videos. Get the ones with the big name people who specialize in their catagory. Read every book WASCO has. They are great I don't know how I would have gotten this far without them.
Then join your state association.
To what these masters on here tell you. Dont be thin skinned and take harsh words personaly. If you really want to learn sift through what they tell you on here, they are experienced and want you to be the best you can be because anything less is a poor reflection on the trade as a whole.
They care about taxidermy and have earned the right to speak their minds and if you are wise you will listen and learn from them.
If you are hard headed and full of yourself you will get your feelings trampled and drop out.
Rick of this post... Go to recent button on the left there. Hit last three days and catch "its probably just me" George Roof started a great thread that will give you a heaping spoonful of what you ordered. Have Fun
Mark
P.S. The orange search button has the rest
you can learn taxidermy by yourself. My first "official" taxidermy class at the tech school here, sent me into a dillusional world that I could undertake many tasks I clearly was not ready to take on. That was eleven, almost twelve years ago. Yep...came flying out of the last session of class with my first shoulder mount, thinkin I could take on the world. The sad part is, the instructor who "taught" me didn't have a clue! It was pickling only (no shaving), never even mentioned removing ear cartilage, (but be sure to stick those liners in...bondo included!). Had only one catalog to reference to the class, and totally bashed the state association.
I've wised up quite a bit since that time. You must be patient in establishing not only your name, but your work standard! You will be much better off not boasting your rudimentary talents, but rather taking in jobs from friends or family that understand you are in a growing and learning process.
The videos and books available today are phenomenal...and can teach you a wealth of things. Things are always easier on paper than in practical application. Do yourself a favor and join your state association. If it's anything like ours in Wisconsin...it's money very well spent! There is something to be said for those who possess true talent , and those who try to mimic true talent. REFERENCE! Make it your best friend! And always remain humble..You will never know it all. Even if you wear the crown of World Champion...your learning is not at a conclusion.
Good Luck with your future endeavors!
TLC