Submitted by Big "D" on 4/30/99. ( )
Well ladies & gentlemen, I'm diving into this one... feet first
First time posting a question :(
I've got a big black bear project.
Commercialy tanned, ears, nose, & lips turned.
I've tried to read all the info in the related forums and heed
the words of wisdom from the select few who graciuosly offer
experience and occational candor.
My question is this:
The ear to ear measurement for this rug mount is 19-1/2"
nose to eyes 6-1/4" ...Where can I find a head form
(black bear) this large??? and will an XXL form work?
My second question is: It is often suggested to "soak" the
head prior to mounting (for stretching), having limited insight
"soak" the head in what... H20?? or ???
Finally, Hats off to the "old-timers" for showing us newbies the way
If it wasn't for forums like this, and guys & gals willing to share
this art we choose to follow... There would be a lot of crappy mounts
out there....
Best Regards, Big "D"
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This response submitted by frank on 4/30/99. ( basswtrout@aol.com )
To answer your question is simple. Many taxidermy companies have head for rug mounting. You need 2 measurements eye to eye, ( which you have) and nose to back of head. Then look under rug shells and get the one that is close to your measurments. If anything get one sizw smaller not bigger!
Secondly you dodn't have to soak your head in water H20(I use H20 and lysol)(makes a wet head to work with)just use a damp sponge to wet the hide, put it in a bag, then put it in the fridge overnight. This will sweet the hide and relax it enough so that you can then remove the ear cartilage shave the skin down more only if needed.
This response submitted by Keith Daniels on 4/30/99. ( arlcape@bright.net )
Frank told you right, but you need to remember to take these measurements before you skin the head out, don't take them on a green skin, your measurements will be way too big if you do. Also, bear heads with the same lenght vary greatly in width, usually boars are "blockier", so taking a head width on the skull is also a good idea, if you look in Buckeye Mannikins catalog you'll see this additional measurement included on rug shells. By the way, they do have a real big rug shell that's not in the book yet. personally would still suggest soaking the head and paws in water for about an hour, then sweating, especially on a bear that big with that heavy of leather, then just dampen the rest of the skin for sewing holes and tacking it out. Keith
This response submitted by Janie on 4/30/99. ( )
I agree with that soaking I like to use a little liquid dishsoap just a
few drops in water then soak need to get thos ears and nose soften up
so you can work with them rest of hide just sponge water on leather side
then sweat over night. Don't forget to strech back to originally size
then tack down till it drys.
This response submitted by Bid "D" on 5/1/99. ( Wildlifebydesign@juno.com )
A big thanks to all that responded... As stated previously, It is
great to have a forum like this.
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