How do I "bleach" and mount a rattlesnake skull / fangs? I am also interested in tanning and preserving the leather for a belt or a set of boots. Any help or source for info?
thanks
Phil
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Peroxide is the bleaching agent of choice. As some of the specialized bones of snake skulls are VERY fine (like the squamozal), I recommend the 3% liquid. The brushing application of the paste variety can snap these fine bones.
If you cleaned it via beetles, the cartilige should hold it all together. If you macerate it, the cartilige will be lost and you will need to glue the skull back together piece by piece (a daunting task). Even if you 'bug' your skull, a few drops of cyanoacrylate adhesive (super glue) at strategic points is advisable.