I also like the mouth closed, it just looks phony to me when it's open. Rainier taxidermy is going to do the bear I shot on Sunday, I've never done a real rug before. They are expensive! I have a full mount, half mount and a few hair on tan's. I like the hair on tan, much cheaper!! I never considered what color for the felt, thanks for the thread, I will have to ask Zach what he does.