Guide to Taxidermy 111 



Formind the Body 



The body, neck and legs must now be formed of 

 excelsior, winding it tightly to the frame, to eon- 

 form to the animals true shape, but of slightly 

 smaller dimensions to allow for the coat of plaster 

 that is to be applied, and for the skin. The tail and 

 legs will be smoother if tow is wound on instead of 

 excelsior. 



The covered framework should now look very re- 

 spectable, and begin to give a good idea of what 

 the finished product is to be. The muscles are not 

 reproduced until the next stage, but the general 

 form should be correct. 



Covering the Manikin 



This can be done with plaster, clay or papier- 

 mache. Most taxidermists use clay, chiefly because 

 it is more easily and quickly worked, especially by 

 the unskilled workman. We prefer either papier- 

 mache or plaster and think the results are more per- - «.' 

 manent and satisfactory. Cover the entire manikin Kvv\(i\dVift^' 

 from head to tail with pl'ister, building up the mus- 

 cles and points as indicated by the drawings and 

 measurements of the original. Remember that plas- 

 ter hardens quickly, so work fast and don't mix 

 larger doses than you can handle. By mixing up a 

 small pail or dipjjer full many times you will get 



