Turkey hunting is a popular pastime for many people, and it can be a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy the outdoors. If you’re lucky enough to bag a turkey, you may want to consider mounting it so you can remember your successful hunt for years to come. There are a few different ways to mount a turkey fan, and the best method for you will depend on your budget and your skill level. In this article, we will discuss the two most popular methods for mounting a turkey fan: the fan mount and the full-strut mount.
The fan mount is the most basic and affordable way to mount a turkey fan. This method involves simply attaching the fan to a piece of wood or other backing material. The fan can be attached with glue, screws, or nails. Once the fan is attached, you can then hang it on the wall or display it in a shadow box. The fan mount is a good option for those who are on a budget or who do not have a lot of experience with taxidermy.
The full-strut mount is a more elaborate and expensive way to mount a turkey fan. This method involves mounting the entire turkey, including the head, neck, and body. The turkey is typically mounted in a lifelike pose, such as a full strut or a gobble. The full-strut mount is a great way to show off your trophy turkey, and it can be a beautiful addition to any home or office. However, the full-strut mount is also more difficult to do, and it is best left to professional taxidermist.
Skull Preparation and Cleaning
Step 1: Remove the Flesh
- Remove as much flesh as possible from the skull using a sharp knife or scalpel. Be careful not to damage the bone.
- Soak the skull in a water bath at room temperature for 24 hours to soften the remaining tissue.
- Use a pair of forceps or tweezers to gently remove any remaining flesh from the skull.
Step 2: Boil the Skull
- Place the skull in a pot of boiling water and boil for 15-20 minutes. This will help to remove any remaining fat and tissue.
- Remove the skull from the boiling water and allow it to cool for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Whiten the Skull
There are several methods you can use to whiten the skull:
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Hydrogen Peroxide | Soak the skull in a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution for 24 hours. Rinse the skull with water and allow it to dry. |
| Bleach | Soak the skull in a 10% bleach solution for 12 hours. Rinse the skull with water and allow it to dry. |
| Sun Exposure | Place the skull in a sunny location for several days. The sun’s UV rays will help to whiten the skull. |
Step 4: Seal the Skull
Once the skull is white, you can seal it with a clear lacquer or varnish. This will protect the skull from damage and discoloration.
Feather Preparation and Cleaning
Preparing and cleaning turkey feathers is a crucial step in creating a stunning fan mount. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure optimal results:
1. Harvesting the Feathers
Choose feathers in prime condition, free from imperfections and damage. The ideal time to harvest is during the spring or fall molt, when the feathers are at their peak.
2. Pre-Soaking the Feathers
Soak the feathers in a lukewarm solution of water and mild dish soap for several hours. This will loosen dirt and debris, making them easier to remove.
3. Cleaning the Feathers
Gently wash the feathers by hand, using lukewarm water and a sponge or soft brush. Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasives, as these can damage the delicate feathers.
4. Removing Grease and Oils
Turkey feathers naturally contain oils and grease that can hinder proper mounting. Removing these oils is essential for a durable and attractive fan mount. Here are several methods to effectively degrease the feathers:
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Isopropyl Alcohol Bath | Immerse the feathers in a bath of 91% isopropyl alcohol for several hours. The alcohol will dissolve the oils and grease. |
| Dish Soap Solution | Create a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Gently wash the feathers in the solution and rinse thoroughly. |
| Dry Cleaning | Wrap the feathers in a soft, clean cloth and place them in a bag of cornmeal or sawdust. Shake vigorously to absorb the oils. |
Creating the Display Base
The display base provides a sturdy foundation for your turkey fan mount and enhances its visual appeal. Here’s a detailed guide to creating the display base:
Positioning the Fan
Determine the desired orientation and placement of the fan on the base. Pin the fan out flat on the base to visualize its arrangement. Mark the fan’s position with pins or chalk to ensure accurate alignment before gluing.
Applying Adhesive
Choose a strong and durable adhesive, such as epoxy or polyurethane glue, to secure the fan to the base. Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the base at the designated marking points.
Attaching the Fan
Carefully place the fan on the adhesive-coated base, ensuring it aligns perfectly with the markings. Press down firmly to ensure a strong bond. Use weights or clamps to maintain pressure while the adhesive dries.
Finishing Touches
Once the fan is securely attached, you can add finishing touches to enhance the display’s aesthetics. Sand any sharp edges around the base for a smooth finish. Stain or paint the base to match the decor or desired appearance.
| Adhesive Type | Drying Time |
|---|---|
| Epoxy | 24-48 hours |
| Polyurethane Glue | 12-24 hours |
Installing the Skull and Feathers
Step 1: Prepare the Skull
Remove the skin from the skull, ensuring to preserve the bones and beak. Clean the skull thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Step 2: Attach the Skull to the Mount
Use screws or wire to secure the skull to the mount. Position the skull so that the beak is facing forward and the eyes are centered.
Step 3: Position the Feathers
Start with the largest tail feathers and work your way down to the smallest. Overlap the feathers slightly and secure them with pins or glue.
Step 4: Attach the Beard
If desired, carefully trim and attach the beard feathers to the underside of the neck.
Step 5: Display Lighting
To enhance the appearance of the mount, consider installing display lighting to illuminate the feathers and skull.
Step 6: Seal the Mount
Apply a clear sealant over the entire mount to protect it from dust and fading.
Step 7: Advanced Feather Techniques
Feather Edging
Use a sharp knife or scissors to carefully trim and shape the edges of the feathers, creating a more realistic look.
Feather Burnishing
Apply a small amount of burnishing powder to a soft brush and gently rub it over the feathers to enhance the shine and accentuate the details.
Feather Dipping
Dip the tips of the feathers in a solution of water and glue to stiffen and shape them, creating a more lifelike appearance.
Attaching the Wattle and Whiskers
To attach the wattle and whiskers, locate the designated areas on the mannequin’s head that are specifically marked for these features.
Wattle:
- Apply a small amount of adhesive to the back side of the wattle.
- Carefully align the wattle with the marked area on the mannequin’s head and press it into place.
- Hold the wattle in place for a few minutes to ensure it is securely attached.
Whiskers:
- Inspect the whiskers to determine their orientation and shape.
- Apply a small amount of adhesive to the base of each whisker.
- Carefully insert the whiskers into the designated holes on the mannequin’s head, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
- Hold each whisker in place for a few minutes to ensure it is securely attached.
The table below provides an additional guide for attaching the wattle and whiskers:
| Feature | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Wattle | Apply adhesive, align with marked area, and press into place |
| Whiskers | Inspect orientation, apply adhesive, insert into holes, and hold in place |
Finishing Touches
Once the mount is assembled, it’s time to add the finishing touches. This includes adding eyes, beak, and feet, as well as any other desired details. Eyes can be purchased from a taxidermy supply company, or you can make your own from glass or acrylic. The beak can be made from a variety of materials, such as wood, plastic, or even real bone. Feet can be purchased from a taxidermy supply company, or you can make your own from wire and foam. Once the eyes, beak, and feet are attached, you can add any other desired details, such as feathers, paint, or artificial vegetation.
Preserving the Mount
Once the mount is finished, it’s important to take steps to preserve it. This will help to ensure that the mount looks its best for many years to come. Here are some tips for preserving a turkey fan mount:
1. Keep the mount out of direct sunlight.
Sunlight can fade the feathers and cause the mount to deteriorate over time.
2. Keep the mount in a dry environment.
Moisture can cause the feathers to mildew and the mount to rot.
3. Avoid touching the mount.
oils from your skin can damage the feathers.
4. Clean the mount regularly.
Use a soft brush to remove dust and dirt. Do not use water or cleaning solutions, as these can damage the feathers.
5. Store the mount in a secure location.
This will help to prevent the mount from being damaged by pests or accidents.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your turkey fan mount will remain beautiful and lifelike for many years to come.
Materials List for Preserving a Turkey Fan Mount
| Materials | Uses |
|---|---|
| Soft brush | Remove dust and dirt |
| Pesticide | Prevent insect damage |
| Feather conditioner | Keep feathers soft and pliable |
| Mount box | Store the mount in a secure location |
How To Turkey Fan Mount
Turkey fans are a beautiful and unique way to commemorate a successful hunt. They can be displayed in your home or office, and they make a great conversation piece. If you’re lucky enough to have harvested a turkey with a nice fan, you’ll want to preserve it properly so that you can enjoy it for years to come.
Here are the steps on how to turkey fan mount:
- Remove the fan from the turkey. Cut the skin around the base of the fan, and then carefully pull the fan away from the body. Be careful not to damage the feathers.
- Clean the fan. Wash the fan with mild soap and water. Be sure to rinse the fan thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
- Prepare the fan for mounting. Once the fan is dry, you will need to prepare it for mounting. This can be done by spreading the feathers out and smoothing them down. You can also use a hair dryer to help dry the feathers and set them in place.
- Mount the fan. There are a variety of ways to mount a turkey fan. You can use a fan mount, a plaque, or even a picture frame. If you are using a fan mount, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting the fan.
- Display the fan. Once the fan is mounted, you can display it in your home or office. Turkey fans make a great conversation piece, and they are a beautiful way to commemorate a successful hunt.
People Also Ask
How do you preserve a turkey fan?
Turkey fans can be preserved by drying them and then mounting them on a plaque or other display. To dry a turkey fan, spread the feathers out and smooth them down. You can use a hair dryer to help dry the feathers and set them in place. Once the fan is dry, you can mount it on a plaque or other display.
What is the best way to mount a turkey fan?
There are a variety of ways to mount a turkey fan. You can use a fan mount, a plaque, or even a picture frame. If you are using a fan mount, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting the fan.
How do you clean a turkey fan?
Turkey fans can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Be sure to rinse the fan thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
How do you spread a turkey fan?
To spread a turkey fan, hold the fan by the base and gently pull the feathers apart. You can use your fingers or a comb to help spread the feathers. Be careful not to damage the feathers.
