166 PRACTICAL TAXIDERMY. 



CHAPTER XXX. 



MODELLING, CASTING, AND CARVING. 



Success in reproducing objects of plastic materials 

 by carving and pressure is acquired only with long prac- 

 tice. Modelling in itself is an art well worthy the study 

 of taxidermists, and those who become proficient will find 

 it a great aid, not only in mounting specimens, but in the 

 arrangement of rocks, stumps, etc., in the general make- 

 up of cases. 



In mounting specimens, plaster, clay, composition, 

 putty, and wax, are the materials employed in perfecting 

 the anatomy. Plaster is the best for heavy work in mod- 

 elling solid heads or over skulls. It is frequently used 

 in forming the limbs of animals, but unless it has suffi- 

 cient thickness to give strength, it should be mixed with 

 glue, to prevent cracking. It may be used in the forma- 

 tion of rocks, crosses, and various ornaments, being 

 richly colored with Chinese vermilion. In mixing 

 plaster, add a little salt to the water, as it will harden it. 

 Be particular to do this where nails are to be driven. In 

 mixing plaster, it should be prepared with clean water, to 

 the consistency of cream, when it will soon become hard 

 enough to work. If made too thick, it becomes hard be- 

 fore it can be handled, and cracks when thoroughly 

 dried. 



Plaster, which is air-slacked or mixed with dirty water, 

 is useless, as it will not set, and crumbles in working. 



Skulls which are to be modelled over should be all 

 cleaned and dried ; otherwise the plaster, which is very ab- 

 sorbent, will soak up the grease and prevent it from set- 

 ting. Iron fastenings should not be used in plaster, un- 

 less covered with other material, as the rust quickly pene- 

 trates to the surface and disfigures the cast. 



