Submitted by Dave B. on 3/28/99. ( dbart10@osagecon.missouri.org )
I do quite a few bobcats and always run into the same problem.
The skin fits perfect everywhere except at the rear, where I usually
have anywhere from a 1-2" gap. I use McKenzie mannikans and
wonder is it the mannikans or me. I do the reliefe cuts, last time I
used the carcass as reference when I was doing my cuts. No
better results, any suggestions. I dont have this problem with any
other mammals. Thanks Dave
This response submitted by John Bellucci on 3/29/99. ( ArtistExpr@aol.com )
Dave,
The first thing you have to keep in mind is that although the measurements might be true, the DIMENSIONS will vary, sometimes greatly, from one specimen to another.
My best suggestion to you would be to measure the depth and width of the carcass with a calipers, and comapre this to the dimensions of the mannikin. Then make any necessary adjustments.
This usually entails splitting the mannikin lengthwise down the center -- after removing the neck at the shoulders -- and then removing equal amounts of foam from both sides of the split surface, until the width dimensions are reached. Sometimes it helps to re-fit the skin as many times as needed to insure a complete fit before permanently re-assembling the mannikin halves. You can use Bondo to reassemble the halves.
Also, be sure to not just make a "relief-cut", but to also round the mannikin inwardly to create the actual construction of the body as it curves away from the limbs. The belly area of mammals, between their hind legs, is narrower than you will find in most mannikins. This is due to molding restrictions.
It is important to learn to use these mannikins as the "tools" they are intended to be. "Make the mannikin fit the skin... NOT the other way around", was the advice I got many years ago from Mr. Joe Kish. He was avid about teaching people not to become "skin-fitters"... those who would try to fit a skin to a mannikin -- to make it fit regardless.
Alter the mannikin to fit the skin. If you keep this in mind, you should have very few problems with dimensionally non-fitting skins.
Good luck to all... John B.