Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 10, 2008, 10:04:31 AM
This is what you are going to need!
1. 5 Gallon Bucket
2. Floating Glass Aquarium Thermometer
http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2752255
3. Fish Tank Heater I would recommend a heater that can keep your 5 gallon bucket of water heated to at least 85 degrees in winter. I wouldn't use anything less that the 150 Watts. Make sure the heater is submersible.
I use the 200 - 250 Watt heaters but I have a 150 gallon tank used to water stock that I macerate in when I have several big skulls. I will normally run no less than 5 - 200 Watt heaters in this tank at one time.
http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2754055
4. Knives or Scaple Blades.
5. A coat hanger or something to get the brains out of the skull.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 10, 2008, 10:08:36 AM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi126.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp115%2Fmichellestaxidermy%2FSANY0148a.jpg&hash=c960e47fb1dc0f41d81011be043649bb82a56198)
Once thawed out and using your choice of knife or scaple remove all the hide, meat, eye's, Lower jaw, and neck remaining on the skull!
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This is a fully preped skull. Their is still a good bit of meat left on the skull. Their is plenty of meat removed for the process to work with out problems. I don't bother removing the upper palat. It will peal off in about a week. Though the more meat you remove the faster the process witll go. Usually you will only save a couple days on a deer skull.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi126.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp115%2Fmichellestaxidermy%2FSANY0155a.jpg&hash=a3bac5da4f97038f9914a8d190fe9fb0934e291c)
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Now using your coat hanger or other tool of choice that will fit inside the back of the skull and scramble the brains. Now turn the skull up and let the brains run out of the hole while working the tool. Using a hose you can spray water inside the brain cavity to help wash the brain out.
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Now put the skull inside the 5 gallon bucket. Put something between the antlers and bucket to keep the back of the skull down inside the bucket. Fill the 5 gallon bucket up with water until the skull is under atleas 1" of water. Also put the Fish Tank Heater and Floating Thermometer inside the bucket. Go ahead and plug in the Fish tank Heater.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi126.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp115%2Fmichellestaxidermy%2FSANY0174a.jpg&hash=e572fe662273f458cbb388c6cf39abc43e3a4af5)
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Now all you can do is wait.
Post by: 270Shooter on December 12, 2008, 08:20:47 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 12, 2008, 11:19:11 PM
Except the brain part is kinda gross :puke:
Just looks like pudding!
Post by: mossback91 on December 13, 2008, 12:13:42 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 13, 2008, 05:46:45 AM
Post by: JoeVon on December 13, 2008, 06:30:11 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 13, 2008, 12:20:57 PM
Post by: huntnphool on December 13, 2008, 12:26:39 PM
Post by: JoeVon on December 13, 2008, 12:56:26 PM
Nope. Why would I recolor them? :dunno:
If I would have thoroughly read your post I would have seen that you are soaking the deer head in water as a first step....not peroxide. Stupid me...
The peroxide that I use will bleach the antlers or anything it touches for that matter white. I'm using 39% peroxide but would assume the stuff you're using would also do this.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 13, 2008, 01:00:09 PM
Nope. Why would I recolor them? :dunno:
The peroxide that I use will bleach the antlers or anything it touches for that matter white. I'm using 39% peroxide though...
I put the skull in peroxide up to about 1" from the antler burs and than I put paper towel around the pedical and top of skull. Every hour I pour fresh peroxide on the towel.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 13, 2008, 01:03:50 PM
How do you go about the final detailed cleaning in the tiny cracks? does the peroxide take care of this? Also, I thought I would like the natural yellow color but now think I want it white.
That is why I don't like boiling. You won't get the conective tissue out between the bones and up inside the nasal cannal. Peroxide won't get rid of it.
Peroxide should get rid of most if not all the yellowing. The yellowing is probably grease set into the bone. You are going to have to degrese.
Post by: JoeVon on December 13, 2008, 01:06:46 PM
Nope. Why would I recolor them? :dunno:
The peroxide that I use will bleach the antlers or anything it touches for that matter white. I'm using 39% peroxide though...
I put the skull in peroxide up to about 1" from the antler burs and than I put paper towel around the pedical and top of skull. Every hour I pour fresh peroxide on the towel.
That sounds more like it.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 13, 2008, 01:12:08 PM
Post by: JoeVon on December 13, 2008, 01:17:56 PM
Post by: JoeVon on December 13, 2008, 01:20:05 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 15, 2008, 04:26:39 PM
Water Treatment. Call it overkill, but i've never had to soak skulls in water prior to peroxide...The water isn't a treatment. Water is used to remove the flesh and membrane from the skull. Prior to degreasing and whitening.
Post by: huntnphool on December 15, 2008, 05:03:23 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 15, 2008, 06:02:32 PM
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I spent approximately 3 minutes pulling off the loose flesh from the bone. Most of the flesh, membrane and tendons should just fall off the skull. It is important not to force the flesh removal.
I did not remove the nose cartilage at this point because it is not ready. Do not try to pull it out because it will more than likely break off and than it is a pain to get the rest out.
This is what the skull looked like when I got done pulling off the meat that was ready.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi126.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp115%2Fmichellestaxidermy%2FSANY0189.jpg&hash=bd4287ddc4cdf75f78bd8767c9da271f94780c7b)
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At this point it is time to 'freshen up" the Broth. Dump out 1/4 of the water in the 5 gallon bucket and refill it with warm (over 90 degrees) water. Replace the skull, thermometer, and Fish Tank Heater. You will leave the skull in this water for another week.
*Broth is a word used to describe the water in the 5 gallon bucket once the skull has started macerating. The broth is nothing but a bacteria soup.
The reason we dump out 1/4 of the water and replace it with fresh warm (over 90 degrees) water is to improve bacterial activity. Bacteria is what is cleaning the skull.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 15, 2008, 06:06:12 PM
Okay Michelle I thought it would be easier to show you a pic. How do I get these cracks, nasal cavity and teeth clean from this point?
The way I have done it in the past is Macerate it. Get a 5 gallon bucket fill it with water and put the skull in it with a heater. Than drop in about a 1/4 lbs piece of meat or some scraps off another skull. The meat will get the bacteria activated. One week should do the trick with your skull.
Post by: huntnphool on December 15, 2008, 06:20:02 PM
Post by: smurfer643 on December 17, 2008, 04:56:53 PM
Post by: PolarBear on December 17, 2008, 05:16:10 PM
Post by: grizzlygibbs on December 17, 2008, 07:07:51 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 17, 2008, 07:20:47 PM
Post by: Jason on December 17, 2008, 07:49:50 PM
this is a neat way to do it, a little longer, but if you dont have a whole afternoon a lot cleaner! So are you done yet Michelle?
Quality work takes time!!
Post by: Schmalzfam on December 17, 2008, 07:59:15 PM
Post by: rougheye on December 17, 2008, 08:12:22 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 17, 2008, 09:33:17 PM
Post by: bucklucky on December 17, 2008, 09:51:22 PM
I know , it doesnt smell right ;)
Post by: smurfer643 on December 21, 2008, 08:00:59 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 21, 2008, 08:42:45 PM
Post by: smurfer643 on December 22, 2008, 10:10:02 AM
Post by: buck470 on January 09, 2009, 04:03:46 PM
I've been watching and hoping you would continue to post the rest of the process.
Thanks Mike
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on January 09, 2009, 04:55:56 PM
Post by: WACATHUNTER on February 02, 2009, 07:31:16 AM
WACAT
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on February 02, 2009, 10:46:03 AM
I just need to get out their and take pic's.
Post by: WACATHUNTER on February 02, 2009, 11:07:24 AM
WACAT
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on February 02, 2009, 05:07:21 PM
Have you been dumping 1/4 the water out every week to 10 days and adding fresh water?
Have you been pulling the skull out and pulling the meat off? Let the nasal cartlage pretty much fall out. If it breaks off it will be a pain in the butt to get out later.
Post by: WACATHUNTER on February 02, 2009, 05:11:32 PM
Thanks again,
WACAT
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on February 03, 2009, 02:10:36 AM
Do not empty out all the water. Only 1/4 of the water at most. Bacteria is like any other living organizm. It needs a healthy environment to live in, in order to do their job. Bacteria eat, poop, and die like anything else. How well would you work having to live and swim amoung dead bodies and poop?
I can't remember the name of it off the top of my head but if you don't freshen the water reguler your bacteria will get sick. A scum forming on the top of the water is a good sign of it. Once you get it it's hard to get rid of it. Nasty stuff.
Post by: WACATHUNTER on February 03, 2009, 12:18:55 PM
WACAT
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on February 03, 2009, 02:15:58 PM
Than fill the bucket up with fresh water. Rinse the skull really really well again and get all the soap off. Put the skull and tank heater back in the bucket and fill with fresh water. Than add some fresh meat in the bucket. 3 golf ball size pieces ought to do. The meat and blood in the meat will activate the bacteria again.
I believe the virus that the bacteria contract is called "Phlage" or something close.
Post by: Kanooper on February 11, 2009, 04:57:06 PM
Post by: TeacherMan on February 11, 2009, 05:18:38 PM
Thanks again for the info...
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on February 11, 2009, 06:53:02 PM
Post by: bucklucky on February 11, 2009, 07:03:23 PM
Post by: WACATHUNTER on February 21, 2009, 08:58:14 AM
WACAT
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on February 21, 2009, 12:37:46 PM
If you use a 5 gallon bucket go ahead and fill the bucket til it covers the skull. It can cover the antlers it won't hurt anything. If you put a stick on top of the bucket and prop the horns up the skull will set a bit lower in the water. Like I did in the picture on the first page of this topic during the maceration step.
So 5 gallon bucket of water with about 3/4 cup dawn water. Wash your fish tank heater and put it in the degreasing water. You will change this solution every 2 days for a couple weeks.
Post by: WACATHUNTER on February 21, 2009, 05:23:05 PM
WACAT
Post by: mossback91 on February 21, 2009, 05:27:13 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on February 21, 2009, 07:23:39 PM
Post by: Gearhead1940 on March 07, 2009, 07:03:57 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on March 07, 2009, 09:17:24 AM
Post by: WACATHUNTER on March 13, 2009, 05:20:34 PM
Just a little bacteria bath, what a fine smell!!!
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Now a bath of Dawn to degrease in.
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I am bleaching 1 of them right now so will try to get some final pics up later.
WACAT
Post by: huntnphool on March 13, 2009, 05:26:02 PM
Post by: WACATHUNTER on March 13, 2009, 05:26:53 PM
WACAT
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on March 13, 2009, 06:07:56 PM
They look good so far. Keep up the good work.
Post by: WACATHUNTER on March 14, 2009, 09:26:01 AM
WACAT
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on March 14, 2009, 01:45:40 PM
Make sure you get all the white deposits off of the skull before you whiten. I go over the skulls with a stiff tooth brush a couple time during the degreasing bath.
After the degreasing bath I'd have pulled the skull out and let it dry completely for at least a week to see if their is any more grease. It will bleed out and make the skull look wet in areas. If it does this back in the degreasr for another week. Here is a photo of the deer I shot this year. I took it out of the degreaser about 2 months ago and haven't had a chance to put it back in. You can see that the grease on the top of the head.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi126.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp115%2Fmichellestaxidermy%2F100_3350a.jpg&hash=3172ea551561bc135ef2c13ac7ba9e368537c743)
The elk I would let go for at least another 10 days in the degreaser.
One thing i will mention is you may want to wrap a couple strips of paper towel around the nose of the deer and wrap electrical tape to hold the bones in position while they dry.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi126.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp115%2Fmichellestaxidermy%2F100_3349a.jpg&hash=148bcda118e0caf2b078b9196a82c54da6108f6d)
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You can also see the yellowing in the eye socket and bottom of skull. That is grease!
Post by: WACATHUNTER on March 21, 2009, 08:02:24 AM
WACAT
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2008 Muley
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Post by: Michelle_Nelson on March 21, 2009, 08:16:21 AM
Thanks for the process Michelle the deer is the best one I havea ever done, I used to boil. THanks again,
WACAT
The Maceration process makes a world of difference compared to boiling, doesn't it? :chuckle:
Post by: bucklucky on March 21, 2009, 08:20:14 AM
Post by: bucklucky on March 21, 2009, 08:26:23 AM
The Maceration process makes a world of difference compared to boiling, doesn't it? :chuckle:
[/quote]
That's what I've been saying for years, but a lot of hunters like taking the short cuts to get theirs done faster.
[/quote]
I just took a hunters do it youself job and tried to "fix it" so it looked halfway descent. Should have just done it right the first time ;)
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on March 22, 2009, 10:15:02 PM
I think the boiling method is more of an instant gratification of getting it done quick so a hunter can hang it on the wall. More often than not the quick way is not the best way. Than again what do we know we only do this kinda stuff every day.
Yes, I do realize not everyone can affored to have every skull professionally done.
Post by: klickman on March 23, 2009, 02:45:56 PM
KLICKMAN :brew:
Post by: whacker1 on March 23, 2009, 04:46:56 PM
Post by: WACATHUNTER on March 23, 2009, 08:51:24 PM
WACAT
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on March 23, 2009, 09:24:19 PM
Thnks all. I used to boil/simmer back in the day like klick said, I am hooked on maceration now!
WACAT
:IBCOOL:
Post by: grizzlygibbs on October 20, 2009, 08:17:02 PM
Post by: elkaholic on November 01, 2009, 04:39:24 PM
Post by: elkaholic on November 01, 2009, 04:45:25 PM
Post by: grizzlygibbs on November 01, 2009, 08:12:28 PM
Be sure to put it somewhere you don't mind getting really really rank! I had to buy a 55 gal brute with lid and relocate them outside! My garage still is rank after 1 week of airing out!
Check out van dykes taxidermy for plaque kits! They have cheapie to very elaborate.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 02, 2009, 07:48:53 PM
As far as mounting them to boards I will have to take some pic's.
Post by: KNOPHISH on November 04, 2009, 09:55:38 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 04, 2009, 06:20:13 PM
During maceration most of the teeth on Bear and only a few on deer will fall out. I only replace the teeth after the skull is completely dry. Never had a problem with them flling right into place.
I hope that after Elk Season I will be able to start a new Maceration thread from start to finnish. I got busy in the middle of doing this one and never finnished in. I will more than likely be doing a Bear Skull.
Post by: elkaholic on November 05, 2009, 07:58:03 PM
Post by: grizzlygibbs on November 18, 2009, 09:06:01 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 19, 2009, 10:46:07 AM
Has the nose cartlige fallen out on it's own yet? Do you have a fish tank heater in the water with the skull? It makes a world of diference. For maceration I like the water to be between 80 and 90 degrees.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 19, 2009, 10:53:31 AM
For all those wanting to do a follow along make sure you have everything on the supply list on page 1. No you don't have to use the exact same fish tank heater but it is the one I have found works the best. I bought it at PetCo or PetSmart.
I hope to start this new thread in a week or 2. YES you can use other skulls. Your not limited to Bear Skull even though that is what I am going to be doing.
Post by: grizzlygibbs on November 19, 2009, 10:57:15 AM
Post by: KNOPHISH on November 20, 2009, 10:00:37 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 20, 2009, 08:35:34 PM
Yes the heater just speeds things up. It will work without but it will take a LOT longer.
Post by: Todd_ID on November 21, 2009, 12:54:24 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 21, 2009, 08:06:13 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 25, 2009, 04:18:17 PM
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Well I got most of the maggots. Went out this morning and they had taken reffuge on the antler burrs. Atleast the ones that hadn't drowned.
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Post by: royalbull on November 28, 2009, 03:44:42 PM
Post by: bucklucky on November 28, 2009, 03:54:16 PM
Post by: huntnphool on November 28, 2009, 04:25:12 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 28, 2009, 07:14:42 PM
Though my husband made chicken, steamed veggies, and rice for dinner. I made the coment did this rice come off the skull I just got done with. It was almost enough to ruin dinner for him.
Post by: royalbull on November 28, 2009, 09:43:35 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 29, 2009, 10:39:50 AM
Post by: huntnphool on November 29, 2009, 10:44:24 AM
Post by: PolarBear on November 29, 2009, 10:48:38 AM
Though my husband made chicken, steamed veggies, and rice for dinner. I made the coment did this rice come off the skull I just got done with. It was almost enough to ruin dinner for him.I freak out my family when we go to Chinese when I put pepper flakes for eyes on the flied lice (fried rice) and line them up like maggots around the plate.
I think I will stick to the simmer and pick method. That maceration is a little too grody for me. Last year I did a european for a friend. When he brought me the head it had been in a plastic bag since he killed it in september. I got it in late December. It was a pile of jelly and maggots. I swore that it would be the last one in that condition that I would ever do.
Post by: ShirtGuy77 on November 29, 2009, 01:15:31 PM
I hope you are charging this person double
I'm glad she's not charging me double ;) This appears to be my dad's bull. Was shot on the first day of our Idaho hunt, and unfortunately couldn't get him back here and into Michelle's hands until we returned. So, not much we could do.
Thanks for posting Michelle. Interesting to see the progress, and sorry about the mess. Next year we'll shoot for a last day kill :chuckle:
Post by: BLKBEARKLR on November 29, 2009, 01:21:12 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 29, 2009, 09:38:05 PM
Though my husband made chicken, steamed veggies, and rice for dinner. I made the coment did this rice come off the skull I just got done with. It was almost enough to ruin dinner for him.I freak out my family when we go to Chinese when I put pepper flakes for eyes on the flied lice (fried rice) and line them up like maggots around the plate.
I swear next time we have rice I am so doing that. Has to be long grain rice though. I will offer to dish up his plate and arange the little rice maggots on it for him.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 29, 2009, 09:41:28 PM
I hope you are charging this person double
I'm glad she's not charging me double ;) This appears to be my dad's bull. Was shot on the first day of our Idaho hunt, and unfortunately couldn't get him back here and into Michelle's hands until we returned. So, not much we could do.
Thanks for posting Michelle. Interesting to see the progress, and sorry about the mess. Next year we'll shoot for a last day kill :chuckle:
The condition of the skull was deffinatly understandable. Skulls are really not that big of deal when it comes to maggots. They tend to clean faster.
Now when I get capes with them than we have some talking to do :chuckle:
Post by: royalbull on December 11, 2009, 08:26:40 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 11, 2009, 08:37:58 PM
Post by: ShirtGuy77 on December 14, 2009, 07:42:40 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 14, 2009, 08:45:38 PM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 18, 2009, 01:43:02 PM
I did something different this year for bleaching; I made a paste of peroxide and baking soda and spread it on like peanut butter. Let it sit for a few hours then rinsed it off and set the skull in the sun for the rest of the afternoon. I am pretty happy with the results. I think I will bleach that way from now on.
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 18, 2009, 10:46:10 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 19, 2009, 03:09:11 PM
Post by: bow4elk on December 19, 2009, 03:36:33 PM
You should go on fear factor, Michelle
Damn, she works around it; she doesn't EAT it! Michelle? Tell me you don't stand around with a Bud Light gnawing at these skulls behind the scenes...
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 19, 2009, 04:57:24 PM
I hope you are charging this person double
I'm glad she's not charging me double ;) This appears to be my dad's bull. Was shot on the first day of our Idaho hunt, and unfortunately couldn't get him back here and into Michelle's hands until we returned. So, not much we could do.
Thanks for posting Michelle. Interesting to see the progress, and sorry about the mess. Next year we'll shoot for a last day kill :chuckle:
The condition of the skull was deffinatly understandable. Skulls are really not that big of deal when it comes to maggots. They tend to clean faster.
Now when I get capes with them than we have some talking to do :chuckle:
CoryTDF did a spike elk that looked about like that a couple of years ago. We forgot the head up at elk camp, and I had to run back up and get it. THis was a Sept archery hunt, and it was pretty hot. I threw the head in the back of the truck and drove it to Cory's house. I saw him go from gagging to wretching uncontrollably just cutting the body hide off the head. The only way he got through skinning out the head was by jamming big globs of Vick's Vaporub up his nose... :chuckle:
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 19, 2009, 05:35:17 PM
You should go on fear factor, Michelle
Damn, she works around it; she doesn't EAT it! Michelle? Tell me you don't stand around with a Bud Light gnawing at these skulls behind the scenes...
No, I don't drink. lol
Post by: Todd_ID on January 13, 2010, 12:40:32 AM
Post by: ridgefire on January 13, 2010, 05:55:42 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on January 13, 2010, 08:32:27 PM
Post by: ridgefire on January 14, 2010, 06:10:04 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on January 14, 2010, 08:54:22 PM
Make sure you check the skull everyday for the first few days.
Than pull it out and let it dry for a week and see if you see any grease. If you do back in the degreaser.
After 3 weeks of dawn I normally put my bear skulls in Acetone for a couple months.
You can try this if you wish but after putting the peroxide on it you do it at your own risk because I have never done it after doing the peroxide.
Though the dawn and water should neutralize the peroxide. Especially after 3 weeks.
Post by: bearhunter99 on January 16, 2010, 07:29:32 PM
Thanks
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on January 16, 2010, 08:35:54 PM
Some mix the dawn and ammonia. Others use straight acetone (mainly to finish Bear). That is after a dawn/water for several weeks.
Post by: ridgefire on January 16, 2010, 09:07:30 PM
Post by: huntnphool on January 17, 2010, 11:57:58 AM
Quote
Dawn, Ammonia, or Acetone ase the 3 common ones.
I cant see Simple Green being any more damaging to a skull than acetone.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on January 17, 2010, 02:39:17 PM
QuoteDawn, Ammonia, or Acetone ase the 3 common ones.
I cant see Simple Green being any more damaging to a skull than acetone.
Well I am not going to give him or anyone on this site the big thumbs up and the go ahead to try something I have not used, personally.
It's not what the Simple Green alone will do that I have a hang up on. It's the combination and potential reaction to what ever chemical they used in the boiling/cleaning process. Also the peroxide they use to whiten it. You never know when or what kinda reaction you will get with mixing 2 chemicals.
It may be nothing more than changing to color of the skull. It could potentially cause a severe reaction resulting in injury or the loss of a skull. You may not see any reaction right away. It may eat away at your skull slowly and after several years it becomes brittle and crumble away.
Am I being overly cautious? Yeah probably, but it is not my personal skull that could be ruined.
I use Dawn/Water and Acetone. I use the acetone straight and the Dawn/Water mixture.
Post by: Pathfinder101 on January 24, 2010, 09:46:47 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on January 25, 2010, 10:32:09 AM
Let me know when you try the maceration thing and if you have any questions. Feel free to call if needed.
Post by: LongTatLaw on March 21, 2010, 03:40:52 PM
heres a few skulls from 2009 hunting season fresh outta the pot
[smg id=9296]
Heres my pathetic 2009 bow BT..many of you know I passed on much bigger deer than this one this year in hopes of a monster but with just a few days left in late bow 2009...I went ahead and stuck him! he's fresh from the bucket
[smg id=9297]
[smg id=9298]
most of this crap will go back in the soup for a while but I thought me and my lil helper could give it a once over...I sometimes like the look of the slightly yellowed skulls so all grease doesnt necessarily have to be gone..my skulls..my liking!
[smg id=9299]
Post by: Pathfinder101 on March 21, 2010, 08:12:09 PM
Post by: LongTatLaw on March 22, 2010, 09:37:07 PM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on October 26, 2010, 03:33:43 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 08, 2010, 10:44:21 AM
Post by: inkfish86 on November 21, 2010, 01:30:52 PM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on November 24, 2010, 10:40:53 AM
Have you started on that buck yet Pathfinder? :)
Holy Lord Mich... I needed a place to do it, since my garage burned down this summer and they haven't quite finished building it yet, so I found an isolated back room in one of the bays waaaay in the back of the unused maintenance building at the Armory where I work. I stuck the head in the bucket, turned on the heater and was checking and adding a little water every couple of days to keep it submerged. THen I went to Montana on my deer trip. When I got back, the armory manager asked if I was "about done with the dead hooker I was obviously keeping locked up in the bay". Holy $#@! that thing smells. I am not going to lie, I am not looking forward to rinsing the skull and changing the water when I get back to work next week... If I would have done this at home in the garage, I would be in some real trouble right now...
Post by: h20hunter on November 24, 2010, 10:55:30 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 24, 2010, 11:07:13 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on November 24, 2010, 12:46:31 PM
Pathfinder101 it's not that bad. :chuckle:
..compared to..
1.____________
2.____________
3.____________
You fill in the blanks. I can't think of anything....
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 24, 2010, 01:49:19 PM
Pathfinder101 it's not that bad. :chuckle:
..compared to..
1.__My dogs farts __________
2.__Skinning a Skunk with over active glands__________
3.__Wet Coyote in summer________
You fill in the blanks. I can't think of anything....
:chuckle:
Post by: Skyvalhunter on November 24, 2010, 01:57:18 PM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on November 24, 2010, 03:07:33 PM
Pathfinder101 it's not that bad. :chuckle:
..compared to..
1.__My dogs farts __________
2.__Skinning a Skunk with over active glands__________
3.__Wet Coyote in summer________
You fill in the blanks. I can't think of anything....
:chuckle:
OK, I must be doing something wrong, because I am intimately familiar with these three things, and I honestly think that skinning a skunk in full rut is the only thing that is as bad or worse (and then, only because it sticks with you for so long).
I'll take dog farts or wet coyote waaaaaay before flesh rotting in warm water any day...
Post by: Mr T on November 24, 2010, 05:20:02 PM
You earn every penny when you scramble and rinse the brains :puke:
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 24, 2010, 07:01:26 PM
Yummy looks like pudding! :drool: It can be any flavor you want it to be. :chuckle:
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi126.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp115%2Fmichellestaxidermy%2FSANY0163a.jpg&hash=2141c78f3c78b5de3cfe33948288a13337372c25)
Post by: turkey slayer on November 24, 2010, 07:55:13 PM
Post by: Mr T on November 24, 2010, 08:55:01 PM
You guys are to sensitive!
Yummy looks like pudding! :drool: It can be any flavor you want it to be. :chuckle:
Makes me all ready to dig in for Thanksgiving dinner :yike:
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi126.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp115%2Fmichellestaxidermy%2FSANY0163a.jpg&hash=2141c78f3c78b5de3cfe33948288a13337372c25)
Post by: Skyvalhunter on December 06, 2010, 06:58:08 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 06, 2010, 01:55:20 PM
Post by: PolarBear on December 07, 2010, 12:51:43 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 13, 2010, 11:25:38 AM
Sometime while I was in Montana, evdiently my fish tak heater burned out and quit working. I suspected this when I poked my head into the room where I was keeping it here at work, and noticed that the water level was about the same as when I filled it up last.
Today, I finally had a little time, so I pulled out the skull to rinse it off.
The parts that the the bacteria have cleaned off look fantastic, but there is still a LOT of gristle left on the skull, particularly on the underside of it and in the eyesockets. The Armory manager is done with the smell of rotting flesh out in the maintenance bay, and I may be retiring in the next month or so, and there is NO WAY Mrs. Pathfinder is going to put up with this smell in the garage.....so....
I am going to have to abort the mission, break out the boiling pot, and finish the job that the bacteria started...
...I am not going to lie, I am not really looking forward to it....
Post by: PolarBear on December 13, 2010, 12:55:57 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 13, 2010, 02:54:51 PM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 13, 2010, 03:28:18 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 13, 2010, 03:30:22 PM
It should only take a week at most to get the rest off. You need a good fish tank heater though. Order the one in my post on the first page. I have some that I have had going on 3 years.
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 13, 2010, 03:32:33 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 13, 2010, 04:36:47 PM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 13, 2010, 08:39:36 PM
WHat size should I be using (in a 5 gallon bucket)?
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 13, 2010, 09:13:51 PM
I use the 200 - 250 Watt heaters.
http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2754055 (http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2754055)
Post by: SuperDave on December 14, 2010, 08:15:30 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 15, 2010, 08:56:40 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 15, 2010, 12:52:40 PM
Yeah, that's what I did wrong... I had an itty-bitty heater...
Post by: Elkslayer on December 15, 2010, 10:31:44 PM
I have a skull that has been sitting outside for two years in my garage. If I start this process and put some meat in it will itfinish cleaning the skull and whiten it?
Post by: PolarBear on December 16, 2010, 12:21:58 AM
Post by: Elkslayer on December 16, 2010, 12:26:33 AM
Post by: PolarBear on December 16, 2010, 12:29:34 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 16, 2010, 02:25:47 AM
The nose cartlige is the very last to come out. Don't force it or you will have to dig or it will break off and than you will have to dig it out.
I have got Deer and Bear skulls cleaning in around 10 days and Elk in 12 days. Usually waiting on the nasal cartlige to loosen.
Post by: Hornseeker on December 17, 2010, 09:19:51 AM
I killed a bull in 98 that I never skinned the head on... still full hide around the skull, ears and all... I'd love to get it to Euro stage someday...
Will this process work to get that fur/hide off there? As you know, its about useless trying to actually skin it at this point...
Thanks for any advice!
My buddy just finished my big bull yesterday... he boiled it... then he used peroxide to get him white... man its nice. I'll get some pics up this weekend.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 17, 2010, 01:25:41 PM
Post by: Hornseeker on December 21, 2010, 09:03:03 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on December 21, 2010, 11:56:06 AM
(Still smells like the underside of a Tyrannosaurus Rex's nutsack....)
Post by: bow4elk on December 21, 2010, 12:08:50 PM
Well, I just checked the soup. Working much better now that I have an adult-sized heater... :chuckle:
(Still smells like the underside of a Tyrannosaurus Rex's nutsack....)
nice...fumunda cheese
Post by: BLKBEARKLR on December 21, 2010, 04:05:36 PM
Well, I just checked the soup. Working much better now that I have an adult-sized heater... :chuckle:
(Still smells like the underside of a Tyrannosaurus Rex's nutsack....)
nice...fumunda cheese
:chuckle:
Post by: Pathfinder101 on March 14, 2011, 10:38:43 PM
I guess I could put up with all of it again, except the smell. I just don't have a place at my house that I can stink up like that and remain married... :chuckle:
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on March 14, 2011, 10:44:40 PM
You must not have had your temperature up high enough and it didn't help that your first heater gave up the ghost half way through.
Post by: Pathfinder101 on March 14, 2011, 10:51:43 PM
THe two bear skulls I had in the same soup both came out nicely, and only required a little scrubbing with a toothbrush to finish. I did have an interesting game of mix and match trying to put the bear teeth back in. Both skulls were just about exactly the same size... :chuckle:
Thanks for all the advice. :tup: I am sure that the buddy I did these for is going to be a happy camper. I think I am going to deliver them tomorrow..
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on March 14, 2011, 11:05:33 PM
Post by: bobcat on March 14, 2011, 11:11:04 PM
Post by: whacker1 on March 15, 2011, 06:01:38 AM
I think when I need a skull done I'll just pay Michelle to do it. I don't have the patience for that.
:yeah:
Post by: Skyvalhunter on March 15, 2011, 06:05:38 AM
Post by: grundy53 on March 15, 2011, 09:16:07 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on March 15, 2011, 09:49:33 AM
You forgot to degease the Bear Skulls. Did you whiten them already? If so can't you see the grease leaching out of the skulls?
No, I degreased them. I put them in a bucket with dawn while I was in Ohio at the National Finals Shooting Match. Was only supposed to be 4 days but we got snowed in at the Cleveland Airport, so it wound up being over a week.
Here's a picture of mine. My buddies' deer and bear are in the truck, but I'll get a pic of them before I deliver them.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on March 15, 2011, 09:54:44 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on March 15, 2011, 10:02:56 AM
Yeah look at the back of your Bear Skull and on the underside. See where it looks wet? Thats grease. It takes months to degrease a Bear Skull.
Oh, didn't know it had to degrease for so long. It's not doing it yet. Oh well...if it starts leakin' I'll just hang it up higher on the wall... :chuckle: :chuckle:
Post by: sdwwaverider on March 24, 2011, 11:47:42 AM
Post by: bucklucky on March 24, 2011, 12:48:19 PM
I have 3 deer & 2 elk done with the maceration. Now I will degrease them, does the tank heater still need to be used while degreasing?
Yes.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on March 24, 2011, 03:31:39 PM
Post by: sdwwaverider on March 25, 2011, 12:37:53 PM
Post by: rebal69972 on May 04, 2011, 10:42:40 PM
Thanks! BTW very informative thread. This is the kind of thing I love about Hunting-WA.:yeah:
Post by: grundy53 on November 16, 2012, 07:23:49 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 16, 2012, 08:19:20 PM
I've never put one in with brains and eyes before.
Post by: grundy53 on November 16, 2012, 08:22:39 PM
How long has it been in the maceration?
I've never put one in with brains and eyes before.
Since Tuesday. So Three full days. I guess it's a good thing it's only a raghorn so I'm not too worried about how it turns out. I just want to learn how to do it right. I guess this will be a little experiment.... :chuckle: :chuckle: If I get a buck I'll make sure to do it right...
Post by: grundy53 on November 16, 2012, 08:24:56 PM
Post by: sirmissalot on November 16, 2012, 08:27:44 PM
Post by: boneaddict on November 16, 2012, 08:39:29 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 16, 2012, 08:59:39 PM
Post by: grundy53 on November 16, 2012, 09:00:20 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 16, 2012, 10:32:15 PM
OK, never put one in with the lower jaw on. You leave the tounge in it to.
I'd suggest maybe pulling it out and cutting off as much meat as you can. If the brains are not already gone use a jet setting on a spray nozzel and blow them out. Than put it back in.
Post by: grundy53 on November 17, 2012, 06:53:51 PM
Post by: boneaddict on November 17, 2012, 06:56:14 PM
Quote
If the brains are not already gone use a jet setting on a spray nozzel and blow them out. Than put it back in.
Make sure you are wearing your Sundays best when doing this. :chuckle:
Post by: bugs n bones on November 17, 2012, 07:00:14 PM
Post by: PolarBear on November 17, 2012, 10:39:46 PM
Maceration is the way to go, no more boiling, bugs or picking!
Post by: grundy53 on November 18, 2012, 03:54:12 PM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on November 18, 2012, 04:18:29 PM
sooo. I pulled the skull out today after it had been sitting in warm fetid water since Tuesday. I cut out the eyes, removed the lower jaw/tongue, removed as much meat as possible from the rest of the skull and used the jet setting on the hose to remove the brains. While I'm sure this I've done grosser. I can't remember when :chuckle:. This was pretty bad. mainly because this was a very hands on project. My wife made the mistake of coming and checking to see what I was doing. She immediately informed me that I was to wash my hands with bleach as soon as I was done and possibly burn my clothes. I needed to shower right away and I'm not allowed to touch our baby boy for at least 2 days.... I didn't even argue :chuckle:. I have since washed my hands with bleach, soap (several times) Lysol disinfectant, and hand sanitizer. I can still smell the rot on my hands. Moral of the story A0 do it right the first time and B) wear gloves. :chuckle:
I hear ya Grundy. I tried this two years ago (you can read my pathetic process earlier on this thread) and I didn't use a big enough aquarium heater and it turned into a horrible, smelly fiasco. I have been to Michelle's shop and I can tell you that she turns out the most impeccable, museum-quality skulls I have seen, but as for me and mine...we are back to boiling. Best of luck to ya :tup:(better luck than I had anyway.. :chuckle: )
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 18, 2012, 06:27:34 PM
BTW some of you guys are way to sensitive. :chuckle:
I can have a deer and Bear skulls completely meat free in 5 - 7 days. Elk are 10 days.
Post by: JPhelps on November 18, 2012, 06:32:58 PM
I tried the fly larva and wait method :bdid: I about puked. I had maggots crawling on me and the meat and brains turned into a grey mush. Worst part is I have to do it one more time :bash: I cut my finger while doing it. I was sure I would die.
I also had to wash everything 10 times. The worst part was when I was hanging them back in the tree some of the sweet smellin' juice ended up in my hair. :bdid:
Post by: kentrek on November 18, 2012, 06:40:23 PM
Post by: JPhelps on November 18, 2012, 06:41:48 PM
this seems like a pretty gross way to do a euro mount.. :puke::yeah: Agreed!
Post by: sirmissalot on November 18, 2012, 07:00:06 PM
Grundy have you stuck a thermometer in to see what the temp is? It goes way faster at 90 degrees or so. I usually use a couple big fish tank heaters on their highest setting.
Post by: kentrek on November 18, 2012, 07:21:34 PM
idk i have a bull i might try this out with..at my brothers house :chuckle:
end results look pretty good tho :tup:
Post by: Lenvw on November 24, 2012, 10:16:39 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 24, 2012, 10:57:49 PM
I don;t know anything about hydrogen dioxide. So I'd say don't use it.
Post by: crazysccrmd on November 24, 2012, 11:14:11 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi73.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fi238%2Fcrazysccrmd%2FIMG_20121021_160404.jpg&hash=23d01ee13b0fbafa04ec4b188b650f3f3b1e1489)
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi73.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fi238%2Fcrazysccrmd%2FIMG_20121124_230817.jpg&hash=03ae53a598e96c30767d241d4af47f00ed80f486)
Post by: Lenvw on November 25, 2012, 07:51:44 AM
Nice skull crazysccrmd, last time I boiled a skull, I cracked off the nosebones just like yours, and I want to keep those on this time.
Post by: boneaddict on November 25, 2012, 08:59:30 AM
Post by: rock on November 25, 2012, 09:17:47 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on November 25, 2012, 10:19:51 AM
Ok, thanks for the info Michelle. So did you ever manage to get pics of the rest of the process?
Nice skull crazysccrmd, last time I boiled a skull, I cracked off the nosebones just like yours, and I want to keep those on this time.
Nosebones usually fall off if you overboil it. If you macerate they won't, but they also stay intact if you don't overboil. I have found that a good rolling boil for 2-3 hours will take everything off that you need it to (yes, you still have to do some "picking") without the bones falling apart. For bleaching I go to the local beauty supply store and buy Salon Care 50 Volume Creme. It comes in sort of a gooey cream/paste that sticks well to the bone and is easy to apply. They were a little reluctant to sell it to me (they are only supposed to sell it to licensed beauticians) but when I told them that I wasn't putting it on my head and that I was just bleaching bones with it they let me buy a couple of bottles. I have found a bottle will do two skulls with some to spare.
Post by: Lenvw on November 25, 2012, 09:10:40 PM
Post by: fishngamereaper on November 25, 2012, 09:19:27 PM
Post by: Bean Counter on November 25, 2012, 09:21:35 PM
I feel sorry for you guys..I used to do mounts this way, got tired of the mess. Now I just buy Mountain Mikes reproduction skulls. Easy, clean and no bad smelly....
Can you post up a few pics of how your mounts have turned up? Thanks.
Post by: PolarBear on November 25, 2012, 09:23:44 PM
Post by: fishngamereaper on November 25, 2012, 09:25:21 PM
I feel sorry for you guys..I used to do mounts this way, got tired of the mess. Now I just buy Mountain Mikes reproduction skulls. Easy, clean and no bad smelly....
Can you post up a few pics of how your mounts have turned up? Thanks.
Yep...check back tomorrow
Post by: Lenvw on November 25, 2012, 09:52:08 PM
Post by: bobcat on November 25, 2012, 10:00:53 PM
Personally I wouldn't want a fake skull. I don't know why. But I just like having the real thing.
Post by: enaz on November 25, 2012, 10:14:45 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 25, 2012, 10:47:31 PM
Put some gloves on and pull the skull out. Pull all the meat off you can. If the nose cartlige dosn't pull out easy don't force it. Just throw the meat in the bucket. Then put the skull back in. Just add enough water to keep the skull covered. Every couple days check the skull and pull off loose meat. Once all the meat is off you can start degreasing.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 25, 2012, 10:49:25 PM
Yeah you can degrease them in Dawn dish soap and water. It's going to take a while because you have baked the grease into the skull when you boiled it.
Post by: fishngamereaper on November 26, 2012, 07:39:32 AM
Post by: enaz on November 26, 2012, 08:06:46 AM
Post by: Lenvw on November 26, 2012, 08:38:15 AM
Post by: Pathfinder101 on November 26, 2012, 10:54:36 AM
A couple of the Mikes mounts and one real one. The Mikes look real enough for me without the hassel of whole process. Also most of my real ones I have tend to flake skull material over time. Seems Im constantly cleaning up white flakes...Ill stick with the Mikes.
I have two skulls that have flaked. Both of them I bleached with actual bleach and that stuff is brutal on bone. Since switching to hairdresser's peroxide I don't have that problem anymore.
Post by: sirmissalot on November 26, 2012, 11:00:15 AM
Post by: Lenvw on November 27, 2012, 08:25:49 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 27, 2012, 10:55:34 AM
Than I put the skull in hot water (as hot out of the tap as you can get it) for a couple hours. Than pull out and let it dry for several days. If it isn't white enough put it back in the peroxide for another 6-8 hours. That is my limit using 30% peroxide. Other wise your skull will start to soften.
Post by: db70 on November 27, 2012, 07:19:49 PM
Thanks,
Dino
Post by: adamR on November 27, 2012, 07:56:36 PM
1. The joints where the skull pieces meet are loose so I was going to get some zap a gap to fix them but can't find that stuff anywhere so is regular super glue going to work?
2. Should I glue the joints before I apply hydrogen peroxide or should I whiten first?
3. How do you apply the peroxide without getting it on the antlers? Michelle I see you "soak" yours, does that mean you set it in a bucket of peroxide?
Post by: PolarBear on November 27, 2012, 08:16:11 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv103%2FPolrbear%2FPicture001-1.jpg&hash=ea8f787e0ecca663a8bb97556e113221b8b22fa2)
Here are some more nice, white maceration bucks.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv103%2FPolrbear%2FDSCN1577.jpg&hash=878f049a433b9df5d0ee925cc7a5d678be59f020)
Post by: grundy53 on November 27, 2012, 08:56:19 PM
I use regular super glue. Glue only after all bleaching is done. I mix 40 or 50 volume peroxide cream with haridressers bleach Basic White II into a pancake batter type consistency and paint it on with a brush avoiding anything that you do not want bleached.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv103%2FPolrbear%2FPicture001-1.jpg&hash=ea8f787e0ecca663a8bb97556e113221b8b22fa2)
Here are some more nice, white maceration bucks.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv103%2FPolrbear%2FDSCN1577.jpg&hash=878f049a433b9df5d0ee925cc7a5d678be59f020)
This is what I do too. I like working with the paste. I also seran wrap the skull after I apply the paste. If you glue it before you bleach it it will show and not look good.
Post by: sirmissalot on November 27, 2012, 09:13:08 PM
Post by: PolarBear on November 27, 2012, 11:12:38 PM
Post by: Lenvw on November 28, 2012, 05:44:08 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 28, 2012, 07:01:59 PM
10 Volume is 3%
20 Volume is 6%
30 Volume is 9%
40 Volume is 12%
I use 40 Volume on skulls I can't soak.
Post by: Lenvw on November 28, 2012, 08:37:31 PM
Post by: robodad on November 28, 2012, 08:40:58 PM
BTW where do you get 30% peroxide, I would like to get some ?
Post by: Bean Counter on November 28, 2012, 10:00:29 PM
Most I have found is 12%.
Post by: Lenvw on November 28, 2012, 10:52:39 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 28, 2012, 10:57:25 PM
Post by: boneaddict on November 29, 2012, 05:40:32 AM
Post by: bearpaw on November 29, 2012, 05:46:14 AM
:yeah:
Most I have found is 12%.
I would check with a hair stylist or a pharmacy?
Post by: Skyvalhunter on November 29, 2012, 06:35:15 AM
Post by: Knocker of rocks on November 29, 2012, 07:13:16 AM
:yeah:
Most I have found is 12%.
I bought some from a pool supply company that was 28%, I believe. They claim that DHS will only allow them to sell for verified use in pools only, so I had to lie. Hair salon supply outlets have also claimed to me that they are allowed to sell only "limited" quanities "according to the FBI".
I haven't been able to verify federal rules requiring this
Post by: sirmissalot on November 29, 2012, 07:46:41 AM
I use pool stuff. Baquacil oxidizer is the popular stuff.
Robodad I have never coated the vase of the antlers, but some do. Just place the skull in a container, fill with peroxide to just below the antler bases, then wrap the bases (just under the antler burrs, not on the antler) with some paper towels or terry cloth rags. This will soak up the peroxide, but poor peroxide over the rag every couple hours to keep them wet.
One thing to be careful with is if your skull isn't degreased properly it will foam up like crazy in the peroxide, you don't want any of the foam getting on the horns.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 29, 2012, 09:43:26 AM
Make sure you don't get that stuff on your skin it will burn you like a son of a ****.
Post by: Lenvw on November 29, 2012, 02:01:27 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 29, 2012, 02:34:02 PM
Post by: Lenvw on December 01, 2012, 06:17:24 PM
Post by: Lenvw on December 04, 2012, 11:00:49 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on December 05, 2012, 12:24:00 AM
I got the ratio of Dawn and Water from another taxidermist. I do not think adding more dawn will quicket the degreasing process. Hot water (115 degrees) and water changes every 2-3 days is what you need.
Post by: robodad on January 01, 2013, 04:42:36 PM
It is the stuff from the elk rubbing on whatever flaking off
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi173.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fw55%2Fbb021099%2FIMAG0592_zps9fa3a9fb.jpg&hash=5c845d6e8c87234e8037229f0ea016fbe63bf178)
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi173.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fw55%2Fbb021099%2FIMAG0591_zpsfa6785f4.jpg&hash=2283230d23339678cd3c9f939fde78b458ae32dd)
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on January 01, 2013, 06:23:34 PM
If you want to keep it, good luck. Just be careful.
If you want it off you can remove it. Use a wire brush or pick it off. It looks like it will eventually flake off anyway over time.
Post by: robodad on January 01, 2013, 10:20:29 PM
What do you mean what to do about it? Do you want it off or do you want to keep it?
If you want to keep it, good luck. Just be careful.
If you want it off you can remove it. Use a wire brush or pick it off. It looks like it will eventually flake off anyway over time.
I guess I should have been more specific in that I am wondering what you do when that sort of thing happens to the ones your working on ?? I just brushed it off with a stiff brush but now it doesn't look like it did when shot so thats why I was curious what I could have done to fix it. Sorry for being so vague !!
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on January 01, 2013, 11:14:10 PM
Nothing really. You could have just left it alone and if it does it does.
Is the antler white under all the stuff you removed?
Post by: robodad on January 01, 2013, 11:18:45 PM
You mean what could you have done to repair it after it cracked?
Nothing really. You could have just left it alone and if it does it does.
Is the antler white under all the stuff you removed?
Nah it isn't white but lighter in color then the rest of the set, I thought you may have a great idea to make it right again, I guess the answer is not to let it happen in the first place eh !!!
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on January 02, 2013, 12:31:45 PM
Are you asking if I have a great way to prevent the stuff from cracking and coming off or how to resatin the light spots?
Post by: sirmissalot on January 02, 2013, 12:36:04 PM
Post by: grundy53 on January 19, 2013, 10:42:53 PM
Post by: sirmissalot on January 19, 2013, 10:52:40 PM
Post by: grundy53 on January 19, 2013, 11:24:13 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on January 19, 2013, 11:54:57 PM
Post by: adamR on January 20, 2013, 08:10:54 AM
Post by: PolarBear on January 20, 2013, 09:33:14 AM
Post by: adamR on January 24, 2013, 11:45:19 AM
Post by: sirmissalot on January 24, 2013, 12:37:13 PM
Post by: adamR on January 24, 2013, 01:36:17 PM
what would some white paint look like on the teeth?
Post by: PolarBear on January 24, 2013, 02:39:51 PM
Post by: Elk whack master on January 26, 2013, 09:34:54 PM
I also recommend closeing the door behind you when checking it cause it will stink up the house in a minute!!! :chuckle:
Post by: luvmystang67 on February 07, 2013, 06:03:04 PM
I see what you've done here Michelle, but I was in a hurry and am not home a ton, which is probably why this whole series of events took place.
I had a bear head, this years buck and a buck from like 8 years ago that I had left sitting in a field that still had some skin on it. The bear and this years deer I skinned (per your directions.. no eyes, no brain) and I boiled because I'm lazy. No maceration here.
THEN, I went and put it in a tub of water with dawn dish soap. Probably 3/4 cup in a 15 gallon tote for all 3 skulls. Temp ~85 degrees. Probably in there for 3 weeks. I didn't have a ton of time so I never actually emptied the water and added new. I was planning to, but I figured for the time being I'd just add some more soapy water. I probably did this 3 times. Now today I went to actually change the water like I"m supposed to... I pulled the skulls out. When i was scrubbing some of the gunk off with my hands, I lightly grazed the burrs at the antler base and they all just fell off. Since it was sitting on the ground (again VERY lightly, I've been very careful) the nose just disintegrated and fell off the skull. It was just entirely falling apart before my eyes. So now I have set it out to dry, no nose left, one antler with no burrs and its just as if its made out of chalk.
SO, while I have done many things not per process, I just figured none of this would hurt it too bad. WHAT DID I DO that made the skull and antlers like this? The preferred answer would not be "you did everything wrong idiot" but I'm trying to make sure I know which part is sensitive so I dont repeat it in the future...
Was it?
Boiling for 8 hours?
Soaking at 85 degrees for 3 weeks?
Too high of a concentration of soap by the end?
I'm sick about it. If I were a 10 year old version of myself I'd likely be in tears at this point. Even cutting corners I have a lot of work into these... :'(
Post by: sirmissalot on February 07, 2013, 06:30:34 PM
Post by: luvmystang67 on February 07, 2013, 06:37:00 PM
Post by: sirmissalot on February 07, 2013, 06:43:49 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on February 08, 2013, 10:54:46 AM
Post by: luvmystang67 on February 08, 2013, 12:57:35 PM
What did you put in the water to boil the skull?
Post by: h20hunter on February 08, 2013, 01:01:29 PM
Not to make it worse but post some pics.....sounds like it is a little rough.
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on February 09, 2013, 09:24:49 PM
The only thing that stands out is the boiling. I have put boiled skulls (brought in to me to finnish) in Dawn Dish Soap and water for months and never had a problem.
That is just odd.
Honestly can't help you with this as I have never run into this problem before.
I'll tell you what. Give me a call sometime. I have an idea that may allow you to display your antlers on another skull. Something fairly easy that you could try. I just don't want to spend the time to type that much.
Post by: grundy53 on February 12, 2013, 09:22:25 PM
Post by: bobcat on February 12, 2013, 10:20:10 PM
Post by: PolarBear on February 13, 2013, 09:19:58 AM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on February 13, 2013, 09:26:42 AM
Though when on the rare ocation I need to wash an area with paint because of a discoloration or something I actually start with Superhide White and add Bass Belly White until I get the desired effect.
Post by: PolarBear on February 13, 2013, 09:32:12 AM
Post by: cevan on March 04, 2013, 10:17:24 AM
Thank you for all of the information provided in this discussion. I have used this information to macerate (with aquarium heater), degrease (in Dawn & water with an "adjusted" aquarium heater to get temp up to a steady ~118 F), and whiten (with 3% hydrogen peroxide), my wife's November 2012 deer. I am VERY happy with the results. Thank you!!!
Post by: grundy53 on March 27, 2013, 10:20:36 PM
Post by: elk247 on March 27, 2013, 11:23:51 PM
Post by: grundy53 on November 26, 2013, 08:14:24 PM
Post by: Michelle_Nelson on November 30, 2013, 12:34:59 AM
Post by: grundy53 on November 30, 2013, 07:29:50 AM
I'm not sure. I don't remember. But those pictures are before the peroxide.
sent from my typewriter
Post by: steen on November 30, 2013, 01:30:53 PM
I personally like the teeth to stay dark. I purposely leave them as dark as i can, removing most and the ones I can't get out i stain to match. Just personal preference after having done many pure white. Did you degrease the skull and teeth or just clean and whiten?We like the teeth dark also. Just hard to do with this process.
Post by: Crunchy on September 10, 2014, 05:01:06 PM
Post by: PolarBear on September 11, 2014, 10:28:38 PM
Post by: Hunter Dug on September 12, 2014, 09:40:59 AM
Post by: LDennis24 on September 12, 2014, 10:13:09 AM
Post by: PolarBear on September 12, 2014, 12:34:46 PM
Post by: Skyvalhunter on March 08, 2021, 06:20:07 AM