The Restoration Process
While each restoration is bespoke, there are commonalities in the materials and methods used to bring a taxidermy piece back to life. A few of these processes may be used, or sometimes, all of them - each commission is a little bit different. Your restoration quote may include:
-cleaning via dry and wet methods
-freezing treatment for any noted pest issues
-recolouring fur/feathers using dyes and/or pigments
-molding putty to recreate missing parts or limbs
-archival museum-grade Japanese tissue papers to recreate missing feathers, skin, scales, etc.
-acrylic/oil/gouache paints to repaint beaks/legs/noses/ears
-rehydration of tissues to correct shrinkage or warping
-replacement/repositioning of eyes
-replacement of of anatomically incorrect parts, ie. tongue, jaw, teeth
-archival pH neutral glue to repair or restore broken parts
-replacement of missing fur with donor fur, flocking, or felted wool
-replacement or updating of existing mount/case
-repairs to mount/case
-all natural treatment to inhibit future pest issues
There’s plenty more, but this list gives you an idea of the detail and intricacy involved in this work to make your taxidermy treasure as beautiful as it can be.