ok, im 13 and i got some new projects ,and i think i know but i was just wandering if some of you wiser taxidermist know how to make a squirells eye's look more realistic,please new taxidermists dont give me stuff that you jsut heard around, i want you to have had an experience,
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Beads from hobby lobby or something you get a packet of them for about .50 pretty cheap for when your first starting out... wait were you talkin about setting the eyes or making the eyes?... ooh and by the way im 13 too...I replied even though ya probally didnt want me to.
How do you make a squirell's eye look more realistic? Well you need good reference and quality supplies. As far as the clay I use Critter Clay. But that is not what makes it look real. The eyes I use for a squirell are the hollow bubble eyes. I hope this is what you are asking, if not I am sure someone will figure out what you are asking.
Todd B
When I began doing taxidermy about 35 years ago, I found that I could dig up clay in the back yard that worked. Top soil was removed and then about a foot down was pretty good clay. Also, you can buy black marbles that work pretty good for eyes in a lot of animals.
NOTE: don't use these kinds of materials for customers. As you progress in your work, you will find that better materials produce better taxidermy.
sculpey works very well, all you have to do is bake it, then paint it. but i agree that the bubble eyes are better.
Here's a 13 year old who doesn't have a clue wanting information but demanding that it come from experienced taxidermists. Talk about gratitude.
As far as what makes them look realistic -- Get good reference(ie. pictures) and REALLY look at them and compare the shape and overall appearence. Then shape your eyes to look the same. Spend alot of time looking at the reference, it will tell you all that you need. Now that being said... if you ask with some manners and respect you'll get answers alot faster and ruffle less feathers. Remember that some people on here were doing taxidermy on dinosaurs, like George (just kidding). They are the people that passed the knowledge on. Try to learn to be humble and things will come alot easier. Try "please" and "thank you" once in a while.
said be less demanding and you will get answers faster.