CHAPTER I. 



INSTRUMENTS, MATERIALS, WORKSHOP, ETC. 



Individual preference may often regulate the quantity and quality 

 of a collector's outfit, when the size of his purse does not have to be 

 taken into consideration. 



The extent to which you desire to carry on operations in taxidermy 

 will altogether determine what should constitute your equipment ; but, 

 as for the beginner, who is to learn the A B C of the art, the instru- 

 ments necessary to proceed with are comparatively few and inexpen- 

 sive. As the amateur proceeds, however, he will gradually discover 

 what is desirable and necessary in his practice, and will provide for 

 his wants accordingly. 



In order to attain the fullest success, the taxidermist must provide 

 himself with excellent tools, and all materials requisite for the per- 

 formance of his work. 'Tis the shining steel instruments of modern 

 make that become favorites among skilled workmen. 



Powers could never have executed his '* Greek Slave " with a com- 

 mon cold-chisel, and many a battle has been lost for lack of the proper 

 sinews of war. By all means, equip yourself before entering the field. 



I shall not dwell longer on the importance of providing a first-class 

 outfit, but shall inspect the quarters in which we are to do the work, 

 and the place in which we are to store our specimens, great and small. 

 We shall first examine the workshop, its general appointments, and the 

 materials to be used. 



The Workshop. — Unless you are an inspired genius, do not select 

 a gloomy, out-of-the-way room in the cellar or garret, for such environ- 

 ments are seldom congenial to the best kind of work. The alchemists 

 and taxidermists of old made this mistake, but I would advise you not 

 to follow their example, unless circumstances absolutely compel you to 

 do so. Select a well-lighted, airy room in your house, or have one built 

 to suit your purpose, and make its appointments as complete as will suit 

 your own convenience. An ideal workshop, together with a repository 

 or museum hall, the capacity of which will answer any purpose required 

 for work in taxidermy, whether you desire to engage in it for pleasure 

 or for profit, may be described as follows : A room, not less than 18x20 



I (O 



