just mounted a duck, took measurements from the carcass, etc. mounted up looks great, however, the breast skin is a little baggy, as in its not snug up to the form. is this going to cause any problems as it drys?
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Loose skin is not necessarily a problem. If it is really sagging then there are a couple of things you can do/consider. First make sure that the wings are in the correct location and are wired or pinned. Make sure that the side pockets are high enrough to properly cover the wings and side. Once that is complete, make sure that the feathers where the neck attachs to the body are pulled up to make a smooth transition. If all of that is correct and you still have bagging skin, use a long pin and pin them up. Once the skin is dry, it will pull up on its own (shrink) to some extent. If the skin is still wet, you can re-open your incision and make sure you have enough material in the side pockets and leg area. If not, put more in and re-sew. Good Luck
I would rather mount a duck than anything. Consider myself decent, but was having same problems as you. Tried/did pinning as above post mentioned. Worked good but was a little tricky. After attending Cory Caruthers' seminar at the last state convention, all ducks get caulk from the eyes to the hole. Think of it as hide paste. You will see immediate results of your ducks taking on the shape you desire.
DP is an astringent and the skin will tighten up as it dries. This allows the skin the flexibility to align itself naturally during the drying process to my mind. You have to stay on it, however, and insure it's drying evenly.
in a thin layer just like mimes said. It gives the quills something to ride on just like the fat and membrane on the live bird.