In this class, we will learn about the fascinating anatomy of mammals and traditional mammal taxidermy. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in mammal taxidermy. No matter the experience level, all are welcome!
You will be learning proven, professional techniques I’ve developed and modified over the past 10 years, with close guidance and individual attention.
This class is designed for beginners to learn professional level techniques used in small mammal taxidermy. By focusing on the facial features, students will create a shoulder mount that can be affixed to a plaque or hung as is. Students will learn proper skinning and fleshing procedures, how to split, turn and position facial features, including the ears. Students will work with professionally cleaned and tanned skins, and learn the traditional methods of sculpting and carving a bust, to create a shoulder mount form.
Students also have the option to create a jackalope/hybrid creature using real antler pieces, or sculpting their own. Students are also welcome to bring their own props or accessories if desired.
(This class uses domestic rabbits and not wild rabbits, so the jackalope created will not be as large as a wild rabbit. Domestic rabbits are used because they are more forgiving for beginners to handle rather than thin skinned wild rabbits)/
Each student will leave class with a finished piece, and the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future. Students will go home with their custom-made creations (a starling taxidermy mount on a reusable temporary base) instructions for maintaining their pieces, and newfound or nourished love of taxidermy.
