METHODS OF PREPARING FISHES FOR EXHIBIT. 1 363 



way a half-inch mold is built up. When it is cold, cut away all the wax about 

 one inch outside the line of fins and tail, and apply a thin plaster case. 



The fish is removed by gentle manipulation or possibly dissection, after 

 which the mold is thoroughly cleansed by the use of a very soft brush and cold 

 water and allowed to dry. 



As pamphlets giving a complete description of copperplating are easily 

 obtained, repetition on this subject is unnecessary here. The work does not 

 require the services of an expert, and anyone of ordinary mechanical skill can 

 arrange the apparatus and follow the simple directions. 



When a substantial layer of copper has been deposited, the case is broken 

 away and the wax mold removed by immersing in boiling water. After cutting 

 and grinding away the excess of copper about the edges of the model by the use 

 of an emery wheel or coarse file, bring the fins and tail down to a thin edge by 

 the same method, and finish the outline with very fine files. 



The model is then given a very thin plating of pure silver. This plating 

 gives not only the full whiteness of the metal but permits of a variety of delicate 

 shading and obviates the necessity for the use of white lead in coloring. 



At first glance this method may appear too expensive for practical purposes, 

 but with the electroplating performed by the preparator, it will prove of less cost 

 than some of the methods now in use. 



