How to mount a taxidermy specimen on a wooden stand

01 October 2024

Mounting a taxidermy specimen on a wooden stand is the final and most critical step in transforming a preserved animal into a piece of art that honors nature. This process requires a delicate balance of structural integrity, aesthetic alignment, and a deep respect for the original animal's pose, ensuring the mount stands as a testament to the skill of the artist while accurately reflecting the wildlife in its natural habitat.

Preparing the Specimen and Workspace

Before the mount is ever attached to the wood, the specimen must be in perfect condition. The skin should be completely dry and set firmly to its underlying skeleton, as any residual moisture or movement can ruin the alignment during the mounting process. The workspace must be clean, dust-free, and well-lit, with a sturdy workbench that can support the full weight of the animal without flexing. Gather all necessary tools, including fine needles, thread, clamps, wire cutters, and a variety of wood screws and washers that match the scale of the animal. Organizing your station efficiently will prevent accidents and ensure a smooth workflow when you begin the physical attachment process.

Selecting and Preparing the Mounting Board

The choice of wood is paramount to the longevity and appearance of the final piece. Hardwoods like oak, maple, or walnut are preferred for their durability and ability to hold screws without splitting, especially when dealing with larger predators. If using a pre-cut board, inspect it for knots or cracks that could compromise structural strength; if using a custom board, measure the area where the skin will rest and cut the wood slightly larger than necessary to allow for adjustments. Sand the surface smooth and apply a protective finish or stain that complements the natural tones of the fur, ensuring the wood does not clash with the specimen. Once prepared, the board is ready to be secured to the stand frame, serving as the foundation upon which the entire artwork will rest.

Securing the Specimen to the Stand

This is the most intricate phase, requiring patience and precision. The skin is usually pinned to the board with tacks or small screws, starting from the center and working outward to the edges. It is crucial to apply pressure evenly to avoid creating air pockets or wrinkles under the skin. Once the skin is securely fastened to the board, the board itself must be rigidly attached to the vertical wooden stand using lag bolts or long screws driven through pre-drilled holes at the base. Use washers and nuts to distribute the pressure and prevent the wood from splitting under the tension of the animal's weight. Check the stability of the mount at various angles to ensure it is level and secure before proceeding to the final detailing stages.

Adjusting the Head and Limbs for Natural Posture

Once the body is firmly mounted, the next challenge is positioning the head and limbs to achieve a lifelike stance. The head often requires the most careful manipulation, as it must face the correct direction while being supported by the neck structure without pulling the skin taut. Wire can be used internally to support the jaw and neck muscles, allowing the head to be tilted or rotated to the desired angle. Similarly, the legs must be bent at the joints to match the animal's natural resting position, often requiring the insertion of bent wire or wooden splints behind the joints to maintain the curve. Fine-tuning these positions ensures that the specimen appears ready to spring into action, capturing the essence of the animal's behavior rather than just its physical form.

Finishing Touches and Display Readiness

The final stage involves filling any remaining gaps between the fur and the wood, often using glue or specialized filler compounds, and securing any loose hairs or wires. Check the overall balance of the mount; if it leans to one side, minor adjustments to the screw tightness or the placement of internal supports can correct the issue. Once everything is secured and aesthetically pleasing, the mount is ready for display. Place it on a shelf or in a case where it can be viewed from multiple angles, ensuring the lighting highlights the texture of the fur and the details of the woodwork. A properly mounted specimen not only serves as a decorative item but also acts as an educational tool, preserving the memory of the species for future generations to admire and learn from.

To ensure the structural integrity of the final assembly, follow this checklist before applying the final coat of varnish:

Verify that all screws and bolts are tightened to the correct torque to avoid stripping the wood.
Inspect the underside of the board to ensure no sharp metal edges are exposed to the floor.
Confirm that the weight of the head is balanced so it does not drag on the ground.
Check that the tail is positioned to mimic the natural drag or lift of the animal.
Ensure the eyes are properly set and facing forward or as intended by the artist.
Verify that the base plate is level using a bubble level.
Clean off any dust particles that may have settled during the long construction process.

With these steps completed, your masterpiece is ready to stand proudly, showcasing the intricate details of the wildlife taxidermy you have crafted with care and precision.

Realistic Wildlife Taxidermy

Marcus Thomas