I have just finished my 3rd mount and things are going quite well. My work is much better looking than I anticipated. Thanks to all of you for your help. I am however, having trouble with my hide paste. I am using a latex premixed paste and applying it to the form and the hide. I work slow and by the time I tuck in the eyes, set the ears and start to sew, the hide paste is drying up and I have to peel the skin off the form and readjust. My capes are not short cut. Is there a paste that will give me longer working time or am I doing something wrong? Thanks again for your help.
Mike C
Return to Deer Taxidermy Category Menu
Try using a dry hide paste. McKenzie offers a good one that mixes will and is very smooth. Or do as I do. Put the paste on the lowed portion of the form from the ears down. then put the cape on, sew it up, and adjust the brisket. Then when you come to the head, open the mouth, and spread the paste on the form with a spoon. now you can do the eyes and face with a fresh wet coat of paste.
works good for me
I use a two day process especially for deer or larger mounts. Since the face is the most crucial, I usually paste the face first and get it all set. I then let this set up (somewhat) overnight but I bag the head to keep the paste somewhat pliable. I then paste the brisket and neck and back the next day and continue. The only thing is that you must make sure that you have all 'skin slack' out of the face and throat area before you bag it for the night. Good luck!
In His,
Dave
Little Creek Taxidermy
www.littlecreektaxidermy.com