Watch, ask questions, and learn. If he is open to the idea, try to join the taxidermist as an apprentice. If he specializes in certain types of mounts – fish, for example – ask him for referrals to specialists in other areas and begin to network while learning how to craft a variety of mounts.
Making the mount comes next. Depending on the animal, you will have to prepare a plaster cast or perhaps buy a premade form. The mount serves as the new “body” for the specimen’s skin and must be the right size. Next skin the carcass, cutting away the hide. Usually this is done without opening the body cavity and without seeing internal organs. However, you must then scrape away all of the excess flesh and fat from the hide. [1] X Research source Once you have skinned the carcass, you have to tan the skin. There are several methods. Some use chemicals like salt and alkaline solutions (at one time, urine was the preferred choice), while others use the animal’s cooked brain, which contains oils that will naturally tan the skin. The latter is called “braining” or “brain tanning. ” All methods are labor-intensive. After tanning, you can finally “dress” the mount by stuffing your form into the skin. Be careful to smooth out any irregularities before sewing it up. Put final touches on the mount by recreating things like habitat and flora.
Weigh the benefits before you enroll. Graduates of taxidermy programs can begin working professionally and build a substantial portfolio while still in training. However, the cost can be more than $20,000 per year, too much according to some. An apprenticeship offers many of the same advantages but for much less.
For example, to practice taxidermy in the state of Michigan, you need a state permit that allows you to possess animal carcasses, buy specific parts like antlers, skulls, and horns, and sell mounted specimens. The permit costs $100 and is valid for three years. [3] X Trustworthy Source State of Michigan Official website for the State of Michigan Go to source In addition, you need a federal taxidermy permit to work with migratory bird specimens. Because it varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, taxidermy law is complicated. Consult a lawyer if you are unsure. You will need to be in full compliance to avoid fines.
Some institutions offer specialized courses in tanning. [5] X Research source You can also find comprehensive taxidermy courses that offer tanning in the general curriculum. Keep this in mind if you want to attend a program. [6] X Research source
Once you’ve identified animals, you will need a thorough understanding of their habitat and vegetation to effectively produce artistic dioramas. You may even want to take a habitat course for taxidermists, which includes instruction on how to make artificial rock molds and install large dioramas.
Professional certification is not mandatory but can improve your credentials and business opportunities. Think of it as a perk of membership. [10] X Research source Professional groups also lobby governments and help to shape hunting and taxidermy law. A membership will keep you apprised of any changes in local regulations.
Try old fashioned door-to-door self-promotion, as well. Look for locations nearby where you can display your work, like tackle shops, fishing stores, sporting goods stores, Kmart, Walmart – any place that will accept them. Make sure to have tags identifying the mounts as yours, with your business telephone, address, and website clearly visible. Even if they decline, ask to leave business cards and price lists for prospective clients. [13] X Research source
