By following the 3 steps “How to produce an insect-proofed taxidermy mount” you can, with full confidence, hand over an insect-proofed taxidermy mount to your client. The next challenge is how the client can keep the mount free of insect attacks in the future?
Actually, the taxidermy mount owner only needs an “easy-to-do” DIY annual (or semi-annual) treatment with Mount Protector that will ensure that the mount is in perfect condition and will prevent insect/bug attack throughout its lifetime.
Use ”Taxidermy Anti Fade”
The “Anti Fade” is not a part of the insect protection program, but this will stop the colour fading or yellowing that occurs with all mounts as they age and are exposed to natural and artificial light. Spray mount to completely moisten all surfaces, but do not over apply. Wipe with a soft towel to remove excess. Do not allow droplets or puddles of product to dry on the mount. Allow to dry and groom mount if necessary.
Helpful Hints: Clean the mount very well with Mount Protector prior to application. Test on a small area on the back side of the mount as this product may slightly change the colour of the hair.
Use “Antler & Horn Conditioner” and “Eye Cleaner & Polish”.
Antler and Horn Conditioner is a Silicone Based Synthetic spray that will provide long-term protection to all types of antlers and horns. It can be applied to both old and new trophies for years of natural colour and sheen. This conditioner will not become tacky and rancid with age, like any plant or vegetable oil. It will also last much longer than other synthetics like WD-40, that are commonly used to moisturise antlers and horns. This conditioner can also be used for cleaning antlers and horns, including the removal of other products that may have become tacky and problematic.
Note: It is recommended that a small trial area on the back side of the antlers and horns be treated to be sure the product will not remove colourants that have previously been applied. This is necessary because some taxidermists will apply dye or paint to horns and antlers to achieve a more uniform colouration. The Mount Medix Antler and Horn Conditioner may remove some or all of this previously applied material.
Product usage: A 118 ml bottle will treat roughly 50 medium sized deer antlers, so very small amounts are used to achieve excellent results.
Read more on the product label
The ”Mount Medix Eye Polish and Cleaner” is specially developed for the taxidermy industry for the specific purpose of making the glass and polycarbonate eyes look natural and real. Its main purpose is to clean the eyes without streaking so they look and sparkle lijke a natural eye. The Eye Polish and Cleaner also contains carnauba wax, just like high quality automobile polish, to make future cleaning easier while maintaining the “natural sparkle”.
Professional Use – The Eye Polish and Cleaner can be pre-applied to eyes before they are installed by the taxidermist. This is accomplished by laying the eyes on an absorbent pad and misting them thoroughly with the product. Let the eyes dry and repeat the process. After two coats, the eyes can be installed into the mounts and will clean much easier than standard untreated eyes. In most cases, paint overspray, clay and glue will wipe off with a cotton swab moistened with the cleaner. After wiping heavy residue away with an initial swab, wet a second swab and polish the eyes for finishing.
Client Use – Eye Polish and Cleaner can also be used by taxidermy owners to remove dust, soot, smoke residue and other unwanted material that could be adhering to the mounts’ eyes. The process is very simple. First wet a cotton swab with the cleaner and make an initial wipe of the eyes to remove heavy unwanted residue. Dampen a second cotton swab with the product and polish the eyes to a like near, natural sparkle.
A 118 ml bottle should clean 100 sets of eyes, depending on the level of initial cleanliness.
Read more on the product label