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Frequently asked questions
General
Film Makers Producers Directors Creatives
Pet Memorial Commissions
What is Taxidermy?
Taxidermy is the art and science of preserving an animal's skin, sculpting an anatomical form and then mounting the skin over the top to recreate a lifelike appearance.
Which types of animals do you work with?
I work with mammals, birds and select reptiles.
How should I store a deceased animal before bringing it to you to preserve?
Please place the animal in an air tight/sealed plastic zip lock bag and freeze it as soon as possible to prevent decomposition. There should be no paper, card, towelling, tissue or materials other than plastic with the animal when it is frozen as this can cause excess dehydration and potentially damage the skin.Please lie birds flat and fold their wings close to their body with their tail out as straight as possible. If this is a wild animals please log where and when it was found and what you think might have happened. These details will be needed for records and any potential license application required.
Do you teach? Can I attend a workshop?
Please click below to head to the current taxidermy and entomology workshops page where you will find the schedule of upcoming classes. If you have an idea for a specific workshop, would like private taxidermy tuition or would like to book a taxidermy or entomology group session or corporate taxidermy class please reach out by heading to the contact page.
Do you restore taxidermy?
Yes, we offer restoration services, including repairs, cleaning, repainting, and structural improvements for taxidermy restoration please reach out via the contact link explaining your requirements and sending through pictures of the piece you would like restored to help me assess and provide a quote.
Do you restore entomology? Bugs, Butterflies, Beetles?
Yes we can help restore your entomology specimens please reach out via the contact page with photos of the specimens and a description of the work you require.
I have an idea for a piece but I don't have an animal to commission can you help?
No problem. In the instance that stock is unavailable we will source according to your requirements. All animals are ethically sourced and never killed for the purpose of the work. We work in compliance with CITIES and DEFRA laws, legal certification will be provided with all protected species.
Where are the animals sourced?
I treat every specimen with the utmost care and respect. All animals are ethically sourced, including road casualties, deceased pets and livestock, natural predation, responsible pest control, frozen feeder specimens, and animals from rescue centres.
Is a deposit required?
Yes, a 50% non refundable deposit is required to secure your project, with the balance due upon completion.
Can you meet tight deadlines?
Rush projects can be made possible depending on scope and availability please contact us as early as possible!
Can you create a bespoke artwork for me?
Absolutely. We welcome creative commissions, from stylised designs to conceptual or mixed-media work.
I have found an animal I would like to donate. What should I do?
Thank you so much! Please begin by confirming that the specimen has been legally obtained and is in a viable condition for taxidermy i.e. without significant feather damage or signs of decomposition etc. I often repair specimens but only so much is feasible.
Carefully package the specimen, wrapping well in plastic bags whilst removing as much air as possible. Smaller animals can be placed in a ziplock bag or airtight container. Clearly label the container or packaging with the relevant details you’ve recorded: what is is, the date it was found, where it was found, what you think might have happened and then transfer it to the freezer without delay. These details are essential especially if a licence needs to be obtained.
What is your shipping policy?
Please head to my Terms & Conditions page where you can find all relevant shipping information.
Are the internal organs left inside?
No. During the taxidermy process the skin or hide is removed, washed and cleaned of all remaining tissue and then tanned in one or more preserving chemical baths before being mounted over a specially crafted form or mannequin to recreate your pet's natural appearance. I prefer to use natural materials and traditional techniques where at all possible when building the anatomical form.
Which materials do you use?
Occasionally it is necessary to use more modern materials like polyurethane foam however I prefer to use natural materials with traditional techniques and I am actively working in increasingly sustainable ways, making my process as kind as possible to the environment.
What happens to my pet's remains after the taxidermy process?
Once your memorial has been completed you can opt to collect your loved one's remains for burial or cremation or I can offer an individual cremation service in which your pet's ashes will be returned to you in a bamboo wooden box with a gold coloured plaque on the top bearing their name. You will also be presented with a certificate of cremation. Please note this is an optional additional cost and will also require collection.
Are workshops open to under 18's?
Unfortunately all workshops are over 18 only. Please do not book a class for anyone under 18 as they will not be allowed to attend. All students must have their photo ID available to be shown upon request.
What is the pricing for prop making?
Prop making prices vary based on species, complexity of project and other factors. Please drop me a message to discuss the details of your project and I will get back to you usually within 12 hours with a quote,
Can I book a private or group taxidermy or entomology workshop?
Yes! Please send me a message with your requirements, group size and preferential date and I will get back to you.
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