Submitted by Jim Sevdy on 6/30/99. ( jsevdy@mninter.net )
I am a vocational consultant & I am working with an individual that is
interested in a taxidermy career. I am trying to find information about
the typical incomes of people starting in taxidermy & people that have
been in the field for some time. I would appreciate whatever information
people have.
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This response submitted by Corey L on 6/30/99. ( ctlogo@toolcity )
Jim
I work a full time job as a die technician and do taxidermy part time.
For an extra income its really not that bad. you do have to sacrifice the other things in life you enjoy
I have found that charging a high dollar for your mounts will actually
increase your business. I guess it kinda weeds out the bargain shoppers
I was told by another taxidermist you're only worth what you charge
so by not charging enough you would only be prostituting your work.
I've found that presentation and educating your customers is a big plus for repetitive business and new customers as well.
It takes time to build a name for yourself and that also means time before money starts flowing. Working with another taxidermist is always an option.
This response submitted by Pacemak'r on 6/30/99. ( jfwagner@hereintown.net )
I went to the local sports shop, got them to donate a set of antlers, mounted them for free (yes, you heard right) and they are displayed in the shop with my business cards. The most expensive guy in the area charges $180.00, my first paid $250.00, is not up for negotiation, and I have all I can handle. Just do great work and you'll stay busy.
This response submitted by Turtle on 7/1/99. ( )
I am a beginner also. As in all businesses, you cannot start out at the top. Same gos for individuals, each has a different story. There are probably folks out there that had a great start and most that struggled. I agree with what the others said. Do good work and you will get the business. Build your confidence and it will bleed over onto your potential customers. But, be modest not cocky. Start out with whatever you can handle. I myself, have limited my work to deer and turkey. I send all the other stuff to another guy in town that does very good work. He in turn tells folks about me. I have seen taxidermists in the past that tried to do every piece that came thru the door and they mostly were poor mounts to say the least. I think a guy should get good at one item before moving on to the next. My philosophy is "You wouldn't go to a general practitioner for a heart bypass would you?"
I wish the guy luck, but I also encourage him to go slow and weigh every option prior to doing this full-time. I also encourage him to get on this forum personally and look at the postings and even ask questions. He will see that this is a complicated art to say the least. It is also a very satisfying art as well. That is, if you enjoy it. Good luck. Turtle
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