a quick question to all those bird guys out there. how important is it to sew holes in a bird skin? it seems like when i try to sew tiny shot holes i just make bigger holes. is it necessary to sew all holes or can i get away with just sewing large holes. and if theres a certain thread or needle i should be using, let me in on the hint. thanks, ryan
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Sew only holes big enough to put your finger through. The smaller won't be a problem when the skin dries.
There are different opinions, but I use a "J" needle (order from a taxidermy catalog), and grey buttonhole thread (any sewing store). You shouldn't need different colors because the threads shouldn't show----right?
Just put a stitch across the centre of the hole after the skin Is dry[borax dry]
are in the eye of the beholder. I generally do not sew holes made by shotgun shot as long as they are not connected. With very large shot, the location of the hole is important. Holes in the wings if the mount is to be open winged, neck and head I sew. Holes made during the fleshing process I sew. All tears of splits, I sew. I am careful to select the correct size needle and thread. Small holes = small needle and thin thread. Belly incisions and other larger holes in the main part of the skin I use a larger needle. I like needles with cutting edges instead of those used for clothing sewing. I find them easier. It is also important not to "bunch" the stitches or pull them too tight. Also, be careful about catching feathers in your stich line. Good Luck
I would agree with clewis and upnorth but i tend to stitch everything on the head and neck including the ear holes. If you inject caulk into these areas you will see why, the stuff finds any little hole and you get to try to clean it off your clean, fluffy duck head. I also sew up the vent for the same reason. Sewing birds takes patience and small stitches with rewarding results. I believe one of the last couple Breakthrough's had a write-up by David Cowley dealing with this subject if your interested. My best to you. Woodie