i have a lynx that has been skinned but still has the feet left on to
finish being skinned. i want to full mount the cat, would apreciate any
pointers on how to finish the skinning? also do you completely skin around
the paws? thanks
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Since you are planning on a lifesize mount, it may be best not to cut through the pad (unless you have a leg wire or such running thru the form, then you may have to cut through the pad until you think there is sufficient length in the cut for the wire, this step can be done later, when you have the manikian handy for test fitting.) When skinning a foot I grab hold of the leg bone and pull it toward me while holding the lynx leg (skin) between my legs. Then I begin skinning around the foot down the the toes. Be careful as you get to the toes as it's easy to cut thru the hide until you get some practice in. The skin on the top and bottom of the foot actually meets between the toes - in other words there's very little or no meat in between the bones of the toes. If you place your blade on the white colored membrane that's evident while applying pressure to this part of the hide, you should be alright. (To find this membrane simply pull on top and bottom of the hide, as if you were pulling apart a garbage bag, it should be quite visible) Skin around the toe bones down to where the claw meets the last knuckle and cut the toes loose, be careful here cause it's tricky until you get the hang of it. This should leave only the claws in place.
Hope I haven't confused you too much. It's not nearly as hard as you may think.
Juli