I have a lion skin that my Dad killed many years ago. We have largely only displayed it in churches and mission related gatherings. The skin is very thick and will not unfold and lie flat. What can I do to thin up the skin so that it will lie flat. Also I have seen edgings around skins that look elegant. HOw can I do that with this lion. Where do I get the materials and how do I apply it/them?
Thanks.
Sincerely,
Larry E
ps. what is a lion skin worth?
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Larry,
You didn't mention what kind of lion it was, African, Mountain, etc., so what it's worth can't be determined. Either way, it sounds like your lion skin needs to be sent to a professional rugging outfit. They will prep the hide and line it as you mentioned. There are several rugging contractors listed in the suppliers section of this site (the list is at the top of this page, below TAXIDERMY.NET FORUMS).
Bob Mead
Hi Bob Mead,
It is an african lion male with a very black mane. It is really beautiful, just heavy and folded.
Do you know a rugger near me (Adrian, MI) south eastern corner of state.
How much about would it cost?
Does "rugging" it add it its value?
What would you do with it if you had it?
Thanks,
Larry E
If the skin has been tanned and is in good shape, having a rug made out of it is a great way to make a stunning display piece, and will add significantly to its value and durability.
Let's take this step by step. First, if the hide is intact and complete, it may need to be thinned down a bit to allow it the flexibility a rug requires. Again, I will assume the hide is tanned. Next, the head needs to be mounted so it appears as it would in real life, to include glass eyes, artificial teeth, etc. All of this can be done by a competent taxidermist, of which there are many on this forum (I humbly include myself in this group). After the head is mounted, it will be sent to a rug specialist for symetrical stretching, trimming, and lining. It will return for final finishing and be ready for display on your wall or floor.
Rug costs vary, but $150 per linear foot (excluding the tail) is probably the average. The value of the rug, if done properly, should be more than double your investment in the work, probably more.
Michigan has a ton of great taxidermists, and any one of them should be able to get it done for you. There are even a few here in NM that could help ;) If you have any more questions, shoot me an email.
Bob Mead