How to Rehydrate Taxidermy
To rehydrate taxidermy, there are several steps you can follow for optimal results.
First, if the skin is raw, thaw it in a salt solution with Skin Prep NBU to prevent bacteria growth.
For dry salted skin, place it in plain water at room temperature and soak until semi-relaxed before placing it in a salt or pickle solution.
To speed up rehydration, you can use Relax R and Bascal S.
Next, flesh the skin using a fleshing machine or currier’s knife, and then degrease it using options such as Kerosene, unleaded gasoline, Coleman Fuel, mineral spirits, or Kemsol Degreaser.
Wash the skin in strong detergent to remove any grease, and then drum it in a fur drum or old clothes dryer with dry towels to remove moisture.
After tanning, soak the skin in plain water with a small amount of bactericide added.
Soft tanning can be achieved using special oils like Liqua Soft, Tanning Oil #1, Tanning Oil #2, or Soft Finish.
Finally, drum the skin with Hair Sheen and Soft Finish.
Overall, a rehydration process, clean rinse, acid pickle, and tanning are essential for rehydrating taxidermy effectively.
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Did You Know?
1. Despite popular belief, rehydrating taxidermy is not as simple as soaking the specimen in water. In fact, immersing a taxidermy animal in water can lead to the fur or feathers becoming ruined or discolored.
2. A lesser-known rehydration technique involves using a mixture of propylene glycol and water. This solution not only helps to rehydrate the animal, but it also acts as a conditioner, keeping the skin supple and preventing it from cracking.
3. Taxidermists sometimes utilize a process known as “relaxing” to rehydrate smaller animals. This involves placing the specimen in a sealed container with a humidifier, where the moisture gradually penetrates the fur or feathers without causing damage.
4. Contrary to popular belief, injecting water directly into the specimen is not an effective rehydration method for taxidermy. Water injected under the skin can create unsightly pockets or cause the animal to become bloated, potentially disfiguring the finished display.
5. Some taxidermists employ the use of “rehydration chambers” to reintroduce moisture to larger and more delicate specimens, such as deer or bears. These chambers allow for controlled humidity and prevent any damage that can occur from direct contact with water.
Freezing Methods For Preventing Bacteria Growth
When rehydrating taxidermy, the first step is to prevent bacteria growth. To avoid promoting bacterial growth, it is not advisable to roll up a green skin and freeze it in a plastic bag. Instead, it is recommended to lay the skin out in the freezer until it is almost frozen. Once it reaches this stage, roll it up tightly and completely freeze it. This method helps maintain the quality of the skin and prevents bacteria from multiplying.
Thawing A Raw Skin In Salt Solution
If you have raw skin that needs rehydration, a salt solution can help prevent bacteria growth during the thawing process.
To do this, prepare a mixture of salt solution and Skin Prep NBU, and thaw the raw skin in this solution.
The salt acts as a preservative, while Skin Prep NBU reduces the chances of bacterial growth.
By using this method, you can ensure that your skin remains in good condition while preparing it for rehydration.
Rehydration Process For Dry Salted Skin
To restore flexibility and preserve the quality of dry salted skin, rehydration is essential. Here’s a step-by-step process to achieve optimal results:
1. Place the skin in plain water at room temperature.
2. Allow the skin to soak in the water until it becomes semi-relaxed. This may take several hours or even overnight, depending on the size and thickness of the skin.
3. Once the desired flexibility is achieved, transfer the skin to a salt or pickle solution.
Remember, rehydration is crucial for the restoration and preservation of dry salted skin. By following these steps, you can ensure the best results.
Speeding Up Rehydration With Relaxing Agents
There are two commonly used relaxing agents in taxidermy that can speed up the rehydration process: Relax R and Bascal S. These agents are added to the rehydration bath and work by softening the skin, making it more pliable and easier to work with. By utilizing these relaxing agents, you can expedite the rehydration process and achieve better results in a shorter amount of time.
Tools For Fleshing The Skin
To properly rehydrate taxidermy, fleshing the skin is an essential step. This process involves removing any excess flesh and fat from the skin to ensure optimal rehydration. A fleshing machine or a currier’s knife can be used to perform this task effectively. These tools allow you to carefully and precisely remove any unwanted tissue while maintaining the integrity of the skin.
Options For Heavy Degreasing
Before rehydrating taxidermy, it is important to remove any grease or oil that may be present on the skin. There are various options available for heavy degreasing. Kerosene, unleaded gasoline, Coleman Fuel, mineral spirits, or Kemsol Degreaser are commonly used substances for this purpose. It is advisable to use these degreasers cautiously and follow all safety guidelines to ensure the best results without compromising the quality of the skin.
In conclusion, rehydrating taxidermy is a meticulous process that requires careful attention to detail. By following the step-by-step guide provided above, you can successfully rehydrate and preserve the quality of your taxidermy pieces. Remember to take the necessary precautions to prevent bacteria growth, use the appropriate tools for fleshing the skin, and choose the right methods for degreasing. With patience and proper technique, you can achieve excellent results in restoring the flexibility and appearance of your taxidermy creations.
- Remove any grease or oil on the skin before rehydration
- Use caution and follow safety guidelines when using degreasers
- Prevent bacteria growth and select the appropriate tools for fleshing
- Choose the right methods for degreasing
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you rehydrate taxidermy pelt?
To effectively rehydrate a taxidermy pelt, it is essential to first acknowledge that the skin is already salted. Therefore, an excessive amount of salt in a rehydration bath is unnecessary and it suffices to use plain water for the task. Typically, a mixture of one gallon of water to one pound of salt works well, which translates to approximately two cups per pound. The saltwater solution aids in the rehydration process without adding unnecessary excess salt into the equation, allowing the skin to regain its original moisture and texture.
How do you rehydrate dried fur?
To restore moisture to dried fur, a gentle and effective method involves using a mixture of aloe vera gel and distilled water. Simply combine equal parts of aloe vera gel and water in a spray bottle. The natural properties of aloe vera will help to hydrate the fur, while the gentle misting application ensures even distribution without causing any damage. Gently spray the solution onto the dried fur, then use a wide-toothed comb to evenly distribute the moisture and restore the fur’s natural shine and softness.
In addition to the aloe vera method, another option is using a homemade hydrating solution consisting of coconut oil and warm water. Mix one tablespoon of melted coconut oil with one cup of warm water and blend well. Pour this solution into a spray bottle and carefully apply it onto the dried fur, using your fingers to gently massage it in. The nourishing properties of coconut oil will help to detangle and rehydrate the fur, leaving it looking revitalized and glossy.
How do you rehydrate a dry tanned hide?
To rehydrate a dry tanned hide, begin by soaking it in water for at least 30 minutes, or longer if the tan is particularly stiff. After the initial soak, drain the water and place the hide in a bag, refrigerating it overnight. On the second day, wet a rag and wrap it around the ear butts of the hide. Then, bag it once more and leave it overnight. These steps help to gradually restore moisture to the hide, allowing it to become pliable and supple once again.
How do pelts not rot?
The preservation of pelts from rotting is achieved through various methods such as salting, drying, and tanning. Salt, specifically in the form of brine, is a common technique used to temporarily halt the decomposition process. By drawing out moisture and creating an inhospitable environment for bacteria, salting effectively slows down the rotting process. Additionally, drying the pelts can further inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi. However, it is important to note that these preservation methods only offer temporary protection, and for long-term preservation, tanning is necessary. Tanning involves the use of chemicals to stabilize the hides and prevent decay, ensuring that pelts do not rot and remain usable for a longer duration.