problem, ive got a set of elk antlers that are two years old and were found. what is the best way to bring this set of antlers back to life? i ordered a finishing wax, that i was told would work wonders, it did nothing but make them look worse. any info or home remedies would be highly appriciated. thanks
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Hello Phillip,
Try to clean up your antlers as best as you can. The easiest way to recolor your antlers is if the bone is clean and white again. If the finishing wax stained the antlers we'll be ok. Go get yourself some good paint from your art store or order them from one of the many taxidermist supply companies such as Van Dyke's. Burt Umber, chocolate brown, taupe, soft white and black are great colors. Start at the bases with a darker brown mixture and work your way up the tines to a slightly lighter brown on the inside and keep the darker coloring on the outside and under the brow tines (use a tooth brush or another larger brush, do not think of it as painting but blending).Wipe off the excess as you go, if needed, to texture the coloring further.You do not want them to look painted. Blend the colors as you go. Keep the rubbed areas lighter(i.e. in between the brow tines, forks and on top of the main bean above the brow tines). When you're done take sandpaper and touch up the rubbed areas, tips (don't paint the tips at all) and the nubs or bumps especially around the bases and brow tines. For coloring help use a good picture of an elk. Remember that all antlers come in a variety of colors blends, just pick the color scheme you want and go for it. You may want to even take in consideration of where the antlers were found and color them for that area. Take your time, if you do not like it, clean it up and re do it. If you have any more questions please e-mail me and hopefully I can help. Good Luck.
Sincerely,
David Moore, All American Antler Restoration and European Taxidermy.