5 Steps to Master the European Skull Mount: A Guide for Beginners * bigfinish.com

The European skull mount is a classic and elegant way to display a game animal’s skull. It is a challenging but rewarding project that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. With careful preparation and execution, you can create a stunning work of art that will be a treasured keepsake for years to come. The European skull mount is a great way to preserve the memory of a successful hunt or to add a touch of rustic charm to your home décor.

The first step in creating a European skull mount is to clean the skull. This can be done by boiling the skull in water for several hours, or by soaking it in a degreasing solution. Once the skull is clean, it should be allowed to dry completely. Next, the skull will need to be bleached. This can be done by soaking it in a solution of hydrogen peroxide for several days. Once the skull is bleached, it will need to be sealed. This can be done by applying a clear lacquer or varnish to the skull.

The European skull mount is a relatively easy project to complete, but it does require some time and effort. With careful preparation and execution, you can create a stunning work of art that will be a treasured keepsake for years to come. So if you have a game animal’s skull that you would like to display, consider creating a European skull mount. It is a great way to preserve the memory of a successful hunt or to add a touch of rustic charm to your home décor.

Preparing the Skull for Mounting

To prepare a European skull mount, you will need to first remove all of the flesh and tissue from the skull. This can be done by boiling the skull in water or by using a flesh-eating beetle colony. Once the flesh has been removed, you will need to whiten the skull. This can be done by soaking the skull in a bleach solution or by using a hydrogen peroxide solution. Once the skull has been whitened, you will need to seal it. This can be done by applying a clear lacquer or varnish.

Here are some additional tips for preparing the skull for mounting:

When boiling the skull, be sure to use a large pot and plenty of water. The water should cover the skull completely.
Boil the skull for at least 30 minutes, or until all of the flesh has come off.
Once the flesh has been removed, use a brush to remove any remaining bits of tissue.
Soak the skull in a bleach solution for at least 24 hours. This will help to whiten the skull.
Once the skull has been whitened, rinse it thoroughly with water.
Apply a clear lacquer or varnish to the skull to seal it.

Here is a table summarizing the steps involved in preparing the skull for mounting:

Step	Description
1	Remove all of the flesh and tissue from the skull.
2	Whiten the skull.
3	Seal the skull.

Attaching the Skull Plate to the Wall

Choosing the Right Hardware

The ideal hardware for mounting the skull plate depends on the weight of the skull and the type of wall surface. For heavier skulls, consider using screws and anchors. For lighter skulls, nails or small screws may suffice.

Skull Weight	Recommended Hardware
Up to 5 lbs	Nails or small screws
5-15 lbs	Screws (1-1.5 inches) and wall anchors
Over 15 lbs	Heavy-duty screws (2-3 inches) and toggle bolts

Locating the Wall Studs

If possible, mount the skull plate on a wall stud for maximum support. Use a stud finder to locate the studs and mark their positions with a pencil. Alternatively, you can drill a small pilot hole and insert a nail or screw to check for resistance.

Marking the Drill Holes

Hold the skull plate against the wall and use a pencil or pen to mark the locations of the mounting holes. Ensure the plate is level and securely fastened.

Drilling Pilot Holes

Before driving in the screws or nails, drill small pilot holes to guide the hardware. This helps prevent the wood from splitting and ensures a secure hold.

Attaching the Skull Plate

Align the skull plate with the pilot holes and carefully drive in the screws or nails. Use a power drill or screwdriver for more efficient tightening.

Checking the Stability

Once the skull plate is attached to the wall, give it a gentle shake to check its stability. If it seems loose, reinforce the mount with additional hardware or adjust the position of the screws.

Positioning the Skull on the Plate

To prepare the skull for mounting, the taxidermist will clean and whiten it to remove any remaining tissue or debris. Once the skull is clean, it needs to be positioned on the plaque for mounting. This step is crucial to ensure the skull is displayed in a way that highlights its anatomical features and overall aesthetics.

There are various factors to consider during the positioning process:

Symmetry: The skull should be positioned symmetrically on the plate, with the nasal bones and eye sockets aligned.
Depth: The taxidermist will determine the appropriate depth at which the skull rests on the plate to create a natural and aesthetically pleasing look.
Angulation: The angle of the skull relative to the plate is another important factor. The taxidermist will adjust the angulation to showcase the skull’s best features and prevent it from appearing too flat or tilted.

To ensure precision and balance, the taxidermist may use a variety of tools and techniques. Dental floss or thin wire can be used to temporarily hold the skull in place while adjustments are made. The use of calipers or measuring tools helps ensure the skull is positioned symmetrically and with the desired depth and angulation.

Once the skull is positioned to the taxidermist’s satisfaction, it is permanently attached to the plate using adhesives or screws. The materials used for mounting will depend on the size and weight of the skull as well as the desired level of permanence.

Securing the Skull to the Plate

Once the skull has been cleaned and prepped, it’s time to secure it to the mounting plate. This will ensure that the skull remains in place and doesn’t move around during transport or display.

Materials You’ll Need:

Material	Description
Mounting plate	The base upon which the skull will be mounted
Screws or nails	To secure the skull to the plate
Epoxy or glue	To further reinforce the connection between the skull and the plate

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Position the Skull: Place the cleaned skull on the mounting plate and arrange it in the desired position.
Mark the Mounting Holes: Use a pencil or awl to mark the locations where the screws or nails will be inserted into the skull.
Drill Pilot Holes: If necessary, drill small pilot holes into the skull at the marked locations. This will make it easier to drive the screws or nails.
Secure the Skull: Drive the screws or nails into the skull through the mounting holes. Ensure that they are securely fastened, but avoid overtightening.
Reinforce the Connection: Apply a generous amount of epoxy or glue around the base of the skull where it meets the mounting plate. This will provide additional support and prevent the skull from loosening over time.
Allow to Dry: Allow the epoxy or glue to dry completely before handling or displaying the skull mount.

Installing the Antlers (if applicable)

If your skull mount includes antlers, the next step is to install them. Here’s a detailed guide:

Prepare the Antlers: Clean the antlers thoroughly with a mild detergent and allow them to dry completely.
Locate the Burrs: Identify the burrs, which are the bony protrusions on the skull where the antlers attach.
Apply Bone Adhesive: Apply a generous amount of bone adhesive to both the burrs and the bases of the antlers.
Insert the Antlers: Carefully insert the antlers into the burrs, ensuring proper alignment and that they fit snugly.
Secure the Antlers: Wrap medical tape or electrical tape around the bases of the antlers and the skull to secure them firmly in place. Allow the adhesive to cure for several hours or overnight before removing the tape.

Additional Tips for Installing Antlers

Use a strong and durable bone adhesive specifically designed for taxidermy use.
Ensure that the antlers are completely dry before applying adhesive to prevent any moisture from interfering with the bond.
If the antlers are loose after curing, reapply adhesive and secure them more tightly with tape.
Be patient and allow the adhesive to cure fully before handling the mount to prevent any damage.

Finishing Touches

Once the skull is completely dry, you can add the finishing touches. This may include painting the skull, adding antlers or horns, or attaching it to a plaque.

Painting the Skull

If you want to paint the skull, use a flat, non-glossy paint. This will help to create a natural look. You can use any color you like, but be sure to choose one that will complement the skull’s natural features.

Adding Antlers or Horns

If the skull has antlers or horns, you can attach them using epoxy or super glue. Be sure to align the antlers or horns correctly before attaching them.

Attaching to a Plaque

If you want to attach the skull to a plaque, you can use screws or epoxy. Be sure to use a plaque that is large enough to support the skull.

Preservation

Once the skull is finished, you need to preserve it to prevent it from deteriorating. You can do this by sealing it with a clear lacquer or varnish.

Sealing the Skull

To seal the skull, apply a thin coat of clear lacquer or varnish using a paintbrush. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the skull.

Storing the Skull

Store the skull in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing the skull to direct sunlight or moisture.

Preservation Methods

Clear lacquer or varnish

Store in a cool, dry place

Avoid direct sunlight or moisture

Preparing a Clean Skull

Remove all flesh and fat from the skull. To do this, you can use a fleshing knife or boil the skull in water until the flesh loosens and can be easily removed. Once the skull is clean, degrease it by wiping it down with acetone or denatured alcohol.

Creating a Rosette

The rosette is a decorative element that is added to the base of the antlers. To make a rosette, cut a circle out of felt or leather and glue it to the base of the antlers. You can then add additional decorations, such as beads, feathers, or ribbons.

Attaching the Skull to the Plaque

Once the skull is prepared and the rosette is complete, you can attach the skull to the plaque. To do this, drill holes in the plaque and the skull and insert screws or bolts. You can also use glue to secure the skull to the plaque.

Mounting the Antlers

If you want to mount the antlers, you will need to drill holes in the skull and the antlers and insert screws or bolts. You can also use glue to secure the antlers to the skull.

Mounting a Cape or Hide (optional)

If you want to mount a cape or hide, you will need to prepare it first. To do this, remove all flesh and fat from the skin and tan it. Once the cape or hide is tanned, you can attach it to the back of the skull using glue or screws.

Applying a Finish

Once the skull mount is complete, you can apply a finish to protect it. To do this, you can use a clear acrylic spray or a polyurethane finish. You can also apply a wax finish to give the skull a more natural appearance.

Displaying Your Skull Mount

Once the skull mount is complete, you can display it in your home or office. Skull mounts make a unique and impressive addition to any decor.

Additional Tips

Use a sharp knife when fleshing the skull.
Degrease the skull thoroughly before mounting it.
Use a level to make sure the skull is mounted straight.
Allow the finish to dry completely before handling the skull mount.
Handle the skull mount with care to avoid damage.
Display the skull mount in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Protect the skull mount from direct sunlight and heat.

Cleaning the Skull

Once the skull has been boiled, it needs to be cleaned. This can be done using a toothbrush and some dish soap. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, and rinse the skull thoroughly with water when you’re finished.

Whitening the Skull

If you want your skull to be white, you can use hydrogen peroxide to whiten it. To do this, simply soak the skull in a solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide for 12-24 hours. Be sure to rinse the skull thoroughly with water when you’re finished.

Preserving the Skull

Once the skull has been cleaned and whitened, it needs to be preserved. This can be done using a clear acrylic spray. Simply spray the skull with the acrylic spray and allow it to dry. This will help to protect the skull from the elements and keep it looking its best.

Displaying and Maintaining Your European Skull Mount

Displaying Your Skull

There are many different ways to display your European skull mount. You can mount it on a plaque, hang it from a hook, or even put it in a glass case. No matter how you choose to display it, make sure that it is in a safe place where it will not be knocked over or damaged.

Maintaining Your Skull

Your European skull mount will require very little maintenance. Simply dust it occasionally with a soft cloth and make sure that it is not exposed to extreme heat or cold.

Troubleshooting

My skull is not white.

If your skull is not white, it may not have been soaked in hydrogen peroxide for long enough. Try soaking it in a solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide for 24 hours or more.

My skull is cracked.

If your skull is cracked, it may have been damaged during the boiling process. Unfortunately, there is no way to repair a cracked skull.

My skull is falling apart.

If your skull is falling apart, it may not have been preserved properly. Make sure that you have sprayed it with a clear acrylic spray and that it is not exposed to extreme heat or cold.

Considerations for Different Skull Sizes

The size of the skull you are working with will affect the specific steps and materials you need. Here are some considerations for different skull sizes:

Small skulls (e.g., squirrel, rabbit):

Smaller skulls require less maceration time and can be cleaned with smaller tools.
Wire mesh or cheesecloth can be used to hold the bones together during degreasing.
Smaller skulls may not require a full degreasing process and can be whitened with a gentle bleach solution or hydrogen peroxide.

Medium skulls (e.g., raccoon, coyote):

Maceration and cleaning can take longer, and stronger tools may be needed to separate the bones.
Larger wire mesh or cotton string can be used to secure the bones during degreasing.
A degreasing solution is typically used for several days or weeks.

Large skulls (e.g., deer, moose):

Maceration and cleaning can be a lengthy process, and specialized tools may be required.
Large wire mesh or metal hangers can be used to support the bones during degreasing.
A degreasing solution may need to be changed regularly, and the degreasing process can take several months.

The following table provides a summary of some of the differences in considerations for different skull sizes:

Skull Size	Maceration Time	Degreasing Time	Tools Needed
Small	Shorter	Shorter	Smaller
Medium	Medium	Medium	Medium
Large	Longer	Longer	Larger

Troubleshooting Common Mounting Issues

1. The antlers are not attached securely.

This can be caused by several factors, including loose screws, insufficient glue, or a weak hanger. To fix this issue, check all of the screws and tighten them if necessary. If the glue is not holding securely, apply more glue and allow it to dry completely. If the hanger is not strong enough, replace it with a stronger one.

2. The skull is not level.

This can be caused by an uneven surface or a poorly attached hanger. To fix this issue, level the surface where the skull will be mounted and make sure that the hanger is securely attached. You may need to use a level to ensure that the skull is level.

3. The fur is matted or dirty.

This can be caused by improper cleaning or storage. To fix this issue, brush the fur gently with a soft brush to remove any dirt or matting. You may also need to wash the fur with a mild soap and water solution. Allow the fur to dry completely before mounting the skull.

4. The skull is damaged.

This can be caused by several factors, including mishandling, chewing by animals, or exposure to the elements. To fix this issue, assess the damage and determine if it can be repaired. If the damage is minor, you may be able to repair it yourself using epoxy or other materials. If the damage is severe, you may need to take the skull to a professional taxidermist for repair.

5. The mount is not stable.

This can be caused by an insufficient base or a poorly attached hanger. To fix this issue, make sure that the base is large enough to support the skull and that the hanger is securely attached. You may need to use additional screws or bolts to secure the hanger to the base.

6. The mount is not attractive.

This can be caused by several factors, including poor lighting, a cluttered background, or an unattractive display case. To fix this issue, adjust the lighting to highlight the skull, declutter the background, and choose an attractive display case that complements the skull.

7. The mount is not professional looking.

This can be caused by several factors, including poor craftsmanship, cheap materials, or a lack of attention to detail. To fix this issue, choose a professional taxidermist who uses high-quality materials and takes pride in their work. Be sure to provide the taxidermist with clear instructions on how you want the skull to be mounted.

8. The mount is not unique.

This can be caused by several factors, including a lack of creativity or a desire to conform to popular trends. To fix this issue, think outside the box and come up with a unique way to mount the skull. You may want to use unconventional materials or create a custom display case.

9. The mount is not personal.

This can be caused by a lack of connection to the skull or a desire to create a generic display. To fix this issue, add personal touches to the mount that reflect your own style and personality. You may want to include photos, memorabilia, or other items that have special meaning to you.

How To Do A European Skull Mount

A European skull mount is a type of taxidermy mount that displays the skull of an animal, typically a deer or elk. It can be a beautiful and unique way to commemorate a hunting trip or to add a touch of nature to your home.

To do a European skull mount, you will need the following supplies:

A skull from an animal
A saw
A knife
A drill
A screwdriver
A wire brush
A bleach solution
A clear coat

The first step is to remove the meat from the skull. This can be done with a saw or a knife. Once the meat is removed, you will need to wash the skull thoroughly with water.

Once the skull is clean, you will need to drill holes for the antlers. The antlers should be attached to the skull with screws.

Once the antlers are attached, you will need to seal the skull with a clear coat. This will protect the skull from damage and keep it looking its best.