Submitted by Donna on 2/11/1999. ( )
I have seen videos, manuals, and forum questions all talk about how to do the detail work on mammal mounts with an airbrush. I did see one video on a squirrel, that used a paint brush for the finishing touches. My question is; Does a beginner have to get an airbrush to finish the mount (hog, etc) or is there another option?
Return to Beginners Category Menu
This response submitted by frank on 2/11/1999. ( basswtrout@aol.com )
In my oppion, and we all have one,I would say yes to your question. The reason being that you can achieve a much softer look with an air brush than by painting it with a paint brush.
This response submitted by Dave B. on 2/11/1999. ( dbart10@osagecon.missouri.org )
I used a brush my 1st year after that I bought a airbrush and let
me tell you the difference in quality is a lot better.
This response submitted by Leanna on 2/11/1999. ( scardeer@cornernet.com )
An airbrush to a taxidermist isn't an option, it's a necessity. It's the only way to effectively blend colors and get a completely natural look on your mounts. GET ONE! It will make your life sooooo much easier!
This response submitted by Donna on 2/14/1999. ( )
Okay, with 3 saying yes, I guess that's the way to go. Thanks alot, Donna
This response submitted by Nanny on 2/24/1999. ( nanny@seric.com )
Donna,
Of course you don't need an airbrush. But it'll make your mounts better, and you'll be able to do them faster. Not that learning to use it will be fast. That takes time and patience. But its definitely WELL worth it.
I have seen guys (and gals) turn out $50 painting in 5 minutes with an airbrush. That kind of thing would just not be possible with traditional paints. Maybe you don't think this has anything to do with taxidermy but I disagree. I feel that all art is related, just because I know that, no matter what art I'm doing, I'm calling on the same feelings, set of skills, and patience.
Here is my suggestion to you when it comes to airbrushing: start with paper. Learn control of pressure and movement. After that, go on to logs or something (anything 3D). This will help you learn angles and such that are only needed on 3D objects. Finally, try a mount. And don't get upset if you mess up a little. And don't be afraid to use something to control the edges on small details. I know of almost no one who doesn't.
What it comes down to is that there is nothing you can do to a mount with a paintbrush that you can't do with an airbrush, but there's lots of things you can do with an airbrush that you can't do with a paintbrush. And its faster.
Just go out and learn it. You may be frustrated at first, but after you turn out your first good airbrushed mount, you'll be glad you did.
Good evening,
Nanny the art Nanny
http://www.netwiz.net/~yresim/nanny/
Return to Beginners Category Menu