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2018 Catalog

Taxidermy Tech

Page 1 of 18 © 2014 Citizen Sportsman Enterprises. All Rights Reserved.

Welcome to Taxidermy Tech!

Congratulations on your decision to pursue the fascinating world of Taxidermy. There are many resources today available

to the public to learn virtually any skill or craft and Taxidermy is no different. The Taxidermy Supply industry has grown

exponentially over the last 25 years and provides excellent how-to resources to aspiring taxidermists and the general

public. The internet and the availability of video resources such as YouTube and Vimeo as well as DVDs and eBooks has

revolutionized the way we transfer information, however, it has not changed the inherently human way we interpret,

process, retain and apply that same information. Observing an instructor execute a process, no matter how good they are

or how much clarity is in the presentation, is never an effective substitute for hands-on performance oriented training in

the presence of an experience instructor. This alone can reduce the learning curve by months and even years.

Our programs are perfect for the do-it-yourselfer or those with a competitive edge looking for a challenging hobby, but

they are primarily focused on beginner and intermediate level students that are motivated and dedicated to starting their

own Taxidermy business. Starting a new business venture is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make, right up there

with starting a family, buying a home and changing careers. There are advantages and disadvantages in any business

venture, and the one you are considering now is no exception. You must be certain that NOW is the time. If you are

currently facing personal or financial challenges or have any reservations about the step you are about to take, now may

not be the time. Give it some thought and come back when you are ready…we will be here waiting for you and ready to

assist you in getting started. If you are absolutely committed and determined to succeed, with nothing to hold you back,

we are here and ready to help you though your journey of personal discovery, professional achievement and self-

fulfillment. It is important that you prepare yourself, not only in the technical aspects of your craft, but in your willingness

to do whatever necessary to operationalize and professionalize your business. We believe that our role in this continues

to be relevant when you leave the physical premises of Taxidermy Tech, through continued support, guidance and

mentorship. It is through this core principle that we affirm our commitment to you to provide opportunity for a solid

professional and technical foundation and the motivation and encouragement you will need to grow and cultivate your

skills and confidence. See Instructors.

Overview

Our instructional approach employs a balance of both traditional and progressive concepts, based more on the

understanding of how people learn rather than how teachers should teach. While the majority of your training

is performance oriented (hands-on), there are some assignments that must be completed and performance

analysis in the form of written tests in some cases. Additionally there will be technical assessments throughout

nearly every course in our catalog, all of which collectively contribute to your final evaluation.

Taxidermy Tech


Welcome current and future Students of Taxidermy Tech, the one-stop-shop for all of

your taxidermy interests and learning experiences!

At Taxidermy Tech, you choose the curriculum and we deliver it in an informal open

atmosphere where you have the freedom to stop or slow the process, to ask questions

or request further instruction in a specific area. When you enroll in a course or program

with us, you will receive all the tools necessary to meet your taxidermy goals and the

direction needed to exceed them. We are here to help you achieve that dream, not only

through our extensive training courses and programs but also through the added value

of our Business Support Services that we extend not only to our colleagues but to each

of our students well after they've completed their course and have left our school.

I challenge each and every one of you that aspire to learn taxidermy or specialize in a

specific area to review our approach to training and gain some insight into our unique

program. Whether you are currently a professional, an amateur or a beginner with no

idea where to start, we have a program for you. Whether it is a career path you've chosen or an exciting new hobby…I

dare you to take the first step and follow your dreams! You might surprise yourself and exceed your own expectations.

You can rest assured that when you train at Taxidermy Tech, we will not abandon or forget you when you leave.

Thank you, in advance, for giving Taxidermy Tech the opportunity to earn your trust and confidence while you learn and

pursue your taxidermy interests and goals. We are here for you and are looking forward to celebrating your success each

step of the way. If you would like a free no-obligation proposal for your taxidermy training, fill out the short request for

information at www.taxidermylessons.com or visit our main website at http://www.taxidermytech.com/.

Valerie Darville President

Citizen Sportsman Enterprises

Pensacola, Florida 32534

(850) 549-3497 Shop

(844) 945-3278

Email: [email protected]

www.expressionsofwildlife.com | www.taxidermytech.com

http://www.taxidermylessons.com/

http://www.taxidermytech.com/

mailto:[email protected]

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Taxidermy Tech


Tuition & Fees Payment Terms

The payment schedule is 25% - 50% - 25%. Terms

1. We provide a proposal to all students who request to attend. The proposal is an offer that sets requirements for the course, costs and payment plan. The proposal states the terms and by accepting those terms you are agreeing to abide by them.

2. A deposit of 25% of the total course fee as laid out in the proposal is due upon registration for a class to schedule time on our calendar. This is due 60 days from start date. Enrollment deposits are non-refundable and non-negotiable. This is to protect our interests in the event of cancellation. Scheduling a student for a course reserves a slot that we may not be able to fill in the event of a late cancellation which can be costly. We will always work with you to reschedule as required but Enrollment deposits are non-refundable.

3. The next 50% of the total course fee is due 14 NOT LATER THAN days prior to the start of your resident training. At this time we will complete your lodging accommodations (if required) and order any required specimens and materials. Please do not be late on this payment. If you are going to be late you must contact us and make arrangements otherwise your course may be rescheduled. We are at considerable risk at this point as we are investing money in resources and booking time.

4. The remaining balance due will be due on the first morning you arrive for training. 5. Cancellations within 14 days from the start of the session will result in a refund less the enrollment deposit and

any costs incurred from cancellation of accommodations and the purchase of specimens and materials. All cancellations must be in writing before refund will be issued. Many acts of God, Nature (and employer) are out of your hands and ours. We will work with you to reschedule your training should the need arise.

6. We will not be held responsible for injury or illness during the conduct of the workshop on or off the premises where the training is conducted. We do have a medical waiver and will ask you to disclose any serious medical issues at the time of enrollment.

7. We accept most major credit cards, eCheck, Personal Checks and cash. There will be a $35 fee assessed on all returned checks.

Once you make a decision to attend and ready to lock in your slot, we will provide the proposal via email. At this point, your approval states the terms and by accepting those terms you are agreeing to abide by them. Once we receive your approval to proceed we will invoice you per the 25%-50%-25% payment schedule. Your 25% Enrollment Deposit invoice would be sent to you via email. You can use the “Pay Now” function on the invoice or call (850) 549-3497 for more instructions on payments. Alternately checks must be made payable to Citizen Sportsman Enterprises and mailed to Expressions of Wildlife Taxidermy, 8929 Pensacola Blvd, Pensacola Florida 32534. Payment by check is very time sensitive. Slots are not locked until payment is made and check has cleared. We must receive your check within 7 days of approving the proposal.

Once the enrollment deposit is paid, your dates are locked on the calendar. If for some reason you have to change your dates we can work with you provided your new dates are not locked by another student. Lodging (if required) is included in the total invoice amount. See our Lodging Information .

Note: If you need computer assistance we can help you take care of all of your documentation requirements.

Taxidermy Tech


Course Subject Cat Course ID Days Base Tuition** Materials*

Gameheads A GH101 5 $1,500 $275

Whitetail S GH102

5 $1,500 $275

Gameheads (Large) S GH103

5 $1,500 $450

Life-size (Small/Med) A ML101 5 $1,500 $250

Life-sized mammal (Large) S LL101

5 $1,500 $750

Reptiles (Snake) A RS101

5 $1,500 $200

Reptiles (Alligator, Small) S RA101

5 $1,500 $650

Replica (Custom and Commercial) S RP101

5 $1,500 $200

Small Waterfowl/or Small upland B BD101

5 $1,500 $100

Turkey/or Large Waterfowl A BD201

5 $1,500 $250

Fish (Skin) B FS101

5 $1,500 $100

Replica Fish B SW101

5 $1,500 $150

Molding and Casting E MC101

5 $1,500 $200

Composition and Habitat E CH101 3 $900 $125

Finishing Techniques E FT102 2 $650

Business Management E BM101 2 $650

Gameheads E GH111 3 $975

$100

Birds E BD111 3 $975

$50

Life-size E ML111 3 $975 $175

Fish E FS111 3 $975

$50

Saltwater Fish E SW111 3 $975

$100

Reptiles E RT111 3 $975

$250

Molding and Casting E MC111 3 $975 $100

*Material costs may fluctuate depending on species.

**One-Student Rate is shown. Add $50 per day for Two-student rate . Additional material costs may apply.

Specimens

Taxidermy Tech


When you book your course at Taxidermy Tech we must determine whether you are providing the specimens or if we are

providing them. If you provide specimens, there is obviously no cost involved from our end, however, the specimens must

be suitable and legal. If we provide them, we will make every effort to locate suitable specimens and you must be prepared

that there will likely be some associated costs which is not part of the basic tuition costs or material costs. An average

sized deer cape can range between $75 and $150. On occasion we have specimens “gifted” that are used for training at

no cost. We are also a Florida Licensed Fur Dealer which allows us to purchased specimens from hunters and trappers,

which we use for the taxidermy market. This can be a significant cost saving advantage for our students looking to obtain

specimens for training. We will work together to come up with a plan to obtain your specimens.

Course Description

Gameheads

The purpose of this course of study is to provide the student with instruction on the basic skills of Gamehead

taxidermy. Students will choose horned, antlered or other as course specific subject upon enrollment…the

most popular is the Whitetail Deer and Wild Hog.

The Course Scope consists of 4 module groups:

Module Group 1-Common Species, Biology, Ecology, Anatomy and Physiology (with a specific emphasis on bone

and muscle movements), Interpreting reference, Field care

Module Group 2-Measurements, Materials/Supplies/Tools, Skin preparation, Form Preparation

Module Group 3 -Mounting Process, Grooming, Drying and basic finishing techniques you will need to make

your work stand out from the competition.

Module Group 4-Evaluation (Written Test and Score sheet assessment of completed mounts).

Objective: Students will mount 2 Gameheads

Category: A

Course: GH101

Days: 5

Maximum Class Load: 2

Taxidermy Tech


Whitetail

This course of study is Whitetail Deer specific. Students will mount 2 deer as a specialty mount which may

include alteration and custom mouth work. This is a fast paced course that is a bit more advanced than the

standard Gamehead course and designed for students wishing to the get to the next level of Whitetail Deer

Taxidermy.


Module Group 1-Common Species, Biology, Ecology, Anatomy and Physiology (with a specific emphasis on

bone and muscle movements), Interpreting reference, Field care


Module Group 3 -Mounting Process, Grooming, Drying, Finishing and Special techniques to make your work

stand out from the competition.


Objective: Student will mount 2 basic whitetail deer mounts.

Category: A

Course: GH102/WT102

Days: 5


Gameheads (Large)

The purpose of this course of study is to provide the student with instruction on the basic skills of Gamehead

taxidermy. Students will choose horned, antlered or other as course specific subject upon enrollment…the most

popular is Elk and Caribou.


Module Group 1-Common Species, Biology, Ecology, Anatomy and Physiology (with a specific emphasis on bone



Module Group 3 -Mounting Process, Grooming, Drying and basic finishing techniques you will need to make

your work stand out from the competition.


Objective: Students will mount 1 large Gamehead (can be combined with an elective Gamehead course to

complete 2 mounts).

Taxidermy Tech


Category: S

Course: GH103

Days: 5


Life-size Mammals (Small/Medium)

The purpose of this course of study is to provide the student with the basic skills of Small and Medium life-size

mammal taxidermy. Students will choose species as course specific subject upon enrollment...most common

species for the program are coyotes, foxes, bobcats and raccoons. Actual specimens used could be subject to

availability. We do offer an additional course of study for large life-size mammals. The most common large

mammal species include Bear, Mountain Lion and Whitetail deer. There will be some discussion during this

course of study on these subjects, however they are offered as a separate course.

The Course Scope consists of 4 Module Groups...

Module Group 1- Common Species, Biology, Ecology, Anatomy and Physiology (with a specific emphasis on

bone structure and muscle movements), Interpreting reference, Field care

Module Group 2- Measurements, Materials/Supplies/Tools, Skin preparation, Form Preparation

Module Group 3- Mounting Process, Grooming, Drying and Finishing.

Module Group 4- Performance Evaluation

Objective: Student will mount two specimens.

Category: A

Course: ML101

Days: 5


Life-sized Mammals (Large)

The purpose of this course of study is to provide the student with the basic skills of large life-size mammal

taxidermy. Students will choose species as course specific subject upon enrollment... The most common large

mammal species include Bear, Mountain Lion and Whitetail deer. There will be some discussion during this

course of study on small and medium mammal taxidermy, however they are offered as a separate course.

The Course Scope consists of 4 Module Groups…

Taxidermy Tech


1. Common Species, Biology, Ecology, Anatomy and Physiology (with a specific emphasis on bone structure


2. Measurements, Materials/Supplies/Tools, Skin preparation, Form Preparation

3. Mounting Process, Grooming, Drying and Finishing.

4. Performance Evaluation

Objective: The student will mount 1 large life-size mammal…most commonly black bear, mountain lion or

whitetail deer.

Category: S

Course: LL101

Days: 5


Reptiles (Snake)

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with the basic skills of snake taxidermy. Students will

choose species as course specific subject upon enrollment...the most common specimens are timber

rattlesnakes and western diamondback rattlesnakes. There will be some discussion during this course of study

on Alligators and turtles, however they are offered as a separate course.


1. Common Species, Biology, Ecology, Anatomy and Physiology (with a specific emphasis on body and fin

movements), Interpreting reference, Field care


3. Mounting Process, Drying and Finishing.


Objective: Student will mount 2 specimens

Category: A

Course: RT101

Days: 5


Taxidermy Tech


Reptiles (Alligator, Small)

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with the basic skills of alligator taxidermy. Only alligators

in the 3 -5 foot range are covered in this course of instruction and are subject to the availability of specimens.

There will be some discussion during this course of study on snakes, however they are offered as a separate

course.





3. Mounting Process, Drying and Finishing.


Objective: 1 Skin mount Rattle snake/1 small alligator

Category: S

Course: RA101

Days: 5


Replicas (Custom and Commercial)

Students in this course of study will mold, cast, finish and paint a custom replica and will finish and paint a

commercially prepared fish replica blank.

Objective: Custom Cast 1 fish/Finish 1 commercial blank

Category: S

Course: RP101

Days: 5


Taxidermy Tech


Basic Small Waterfowl/or Small upland

The purpose of this course of study is to provide the student with the basic skills of Bird taxidermy. Students

will choose upland birds or waterfowl as course specific subject upon enrollment...most common upland birds

are Pheasants and the most common waterfowl are ducks and small geese. Actual specimens used could be

subject to availability.

The Course Scope consists of 4 module groups...

1. Common Species, Biology, Ecology, Anatomy and Physiology (with a specific emphasis on bone and muscle


2. Measurements, Materials/Supplies/Tools, Skin preparation, Form Preparation, Armatures

3. Mounting Process, Grooming, Drying and Finishing


Objective: Student will mount 2 specimens.

Category: B

Course: BD101

Days: 5


Turkey/or Large Waterfowl

The purpose of this course of study is to provide the student with the basic skills of large Bird taxidermy.

Students will choose upland birds or waterfowl as course specific subject upon enrollment...most common

large upland birds are Turkey and the most common waterfowl are larger geese. Actual specimens used could

be subject to availability.

The Course Scope consists of 4 module groups...

1. Common Species, Biology, Ecology, Anatomy and Physiology (with a specific emphasis on bone and muscle


2. Measurements, Materials/Supplies/Tools, Skin preparation, Form Preparation, Armatures 3. Mounting

Process, Grooming, Drying and Finishing



Category: A

Taxidermy Tech


Course: BD102

Days: 5


Fish

The purpose of this course of study is to provide the student with the basic skills of Fish taxidermy with

emphasis on skin mounting. Students will choose warm water or cold water species as course specific subject

upon enrollment...most common warm water fish are Largemouth Bass, Bluegill and Redear. Most common

cold water fish are Trout and Walleye. Actual specimens used could be subject to availability. We do offer an

additional courses of study specific to or combined with saltwater skin mounts and custom or commercial

replicas. The most common saltwater species include Redfish and Speckled Trout. There will be some

discussion during this course of study on these subjects, however they are offered as a separate course.





3. Mounting Process, Fin carding, Drying and Finishing.



Category: B

Course: FS101

Days: 5


Saltwater Fish

The purpose of this course of study is to provide the student with the basic skills of Fish taxidermy with

emphasis on skin mounting or certain saltwater species and replicas. Students will choose species as course

specific subject upon enrollment...The most common saltwater species include Redfish and Speckled Trout.

There will be some discussion of freshwater fish taxidermy during this course of study, however they are

offered as a separate course. Courses are modular so we can customize as the student requires.


Taxidermy Tech





3. Mounting Process, Fin carding, Drying and Finishing.



Category: B

Course: SW101

Days: 5


Composition and Habitat

This course of study is designed to provide a basic overview of composition and design incorporating habitat

techniques that will bring your mounts to life. The student will learn the importance of balance and the role

that positive and negative space play in composition. Students learn how to make realistic replica rocks, plants

and trees, snow and ice and even unbelievably realistic splash effects in water scenes.

Objective: Student will complete 3 projects… Splash or snow/ice scene/Woodland habitat with rocks

Category: E

Course: CH101

Days: 3


Finishing Techniques

This course is the capstone event of the program. The student will learn to prepare a dry mounted specimen,

interpret and rebuild shrunken soft tissues, blend junctures and seams. Extensive use of the airbrush, utilizing

both lacquer and water based paints as well as traditional brush painting with oil and acrylic are employed to

restore color and create the illusion of depth and translucence.

Objective: Complete finishing work on all course mounts

Category: E

Course: FT102

Taxidermy Tech


Days: 2


Business Management Principles: The Business of Taxidermy

The instructor covers business plans, startup concepts, licensing, marketing to include web development,

managing operations, financials and dealing with customers. This course of study is designed to bridge the gap

between taxidermy as a hobby and taxidermy as a legitimate business. You will photograph your completed

mounts, edit your photos and incorporate them into a website. You will actually write a business plan, learn

how to plan and schedule workflow, estimate cash flow requirements, break down direct and indirect costs

and determine profit or loss. We will research and assist you in understand the taxidermy laws of your state to

include licensing requirements. This is a must do course for students who aspire to operate a commercial

taxidermy studio. The week begins with the Explorer phase of the program. If you have completed Explorer

prior to arrival you will be credited for completion.

Objective: Complete Business plan/Marketing plan with website/Operations plan

Category: E

Course: BM101

Days: 2


Molding and Casting

Molding and casting are preferred skills for a production studio. They can make you money and save you even

more once you have made the initial investment into the molding process; but the real benefit is realized in

the development of a part that may not have a practical commercial solution. Some projects include duck

heads, jaw sets, and half mount fish.

Objective: Student will complete 3 projects

Category: E

Course: MC101

Days: 3


Taxidermy Tech


Electives (Workshops, Mini-Courses)

We have 3 day workshops available…perfect for weekenders! These courses follow the same general

module group sequence but with less practical application than the weeklong course.

Gameheads-Student mounts 1 Gamehead.

Category: E

Course: GH111

Days: 3


Birds-Student mounts 1 waterfowl or 1 upland bird.

Category: E

Course: BD111

Days: 3


Life-size (Small to Medium) – Student mounts 1 specimen.

Category: E

Course: ML111

Days: 3


Fish-Student mount 1 Freshwater fish.

Category: E

Course: FS111

Days: 3


Taxidermy Tech


Saltwater Fish-Student mounts 1 saltwater skin specimen

Category: E

Course: SW111

Days: 3


Reptiles-Student mounts 1 snake

Category: E

Course: RT111

Days: 3


Molding Casting- Student will complete 2 molding and casting projects.

Category: E

Course: MC111

Days: 3


Meals We do not officially provide meals. We will have snacks, chips, sandwiches and beverages in the shop during the

day. We have a smoker/cooker, crockpot and seafood boiler on site that we often use to cook foods throughout

the week. These are there for all to use. Additionally, our Extended Stay (Value Place) has a kitchenette in each

room. You can save money by preparing your own food during your stay.

Lodging We have housed students at Woodspring Suites. It is updated and very nice for a budget extended stay.

Taxidermy Tech


Woodspring Suites (Extended Stay) Free parking Cable TV service

Climate control

Iron/ironing board

Kitchenette

Microwave

Phone

Private bathroom

Refrigerator

Shower/tub combination

Stovetop

Television

WiFi

Pots/Pans Standard Studio, 1 Double Bed, Kitchen Bed choices Double Bed 1 double bed Entertainment - WiFi and cable channels Food & Drink - Kitchenette with refrigerator, stovetop, and microwave Bathroom - Private bathroom and shower/tub combination No continental breakfast and there are no restaurants within walking distance but this has a kitchenette where you could prepare your own food. There is a small Bar (Mugs & Jugs) next door. Average $40 - $65 per night.

Taxidermy Tech


Ken Darville My experience in the taxidermy industry has spanned about 28 years, with about half of it as an instructor. I am a proud veteran and have worked with the Army both in uniform and out for most of my adult life. I had the privilege of managing a number of large programs for the Army, training our troops and foreign troops so the concepts of training are very familiar to me. My first full time taxidermy shop was in Buena Vista Georgia, just outside of Columbus. I am married to my best friend (and my boss) Valerie. I have 3 daughters and 2 stepsons, all grown…3 grandsons and another Grandbaby on the way, life is good.

As the co-owner of Citizen Sportsman Enterprises, the parent entity for Expressions of Wildlife Taxidermy Inc and the Taxidermy Tech Vocational Training Program, I approached our model as I have every project before…a lot of planning, a lot of planting seeds, hard work and a continuous assessment. It is evolving just as we illustrated in our business plan. We do commercial services, training and business support services exclusively for taxidermists. There is not much we cannot do in that realm. Please be sure and visit both of our websites and our Facebook pages. The addresses are at the bottom of my email signature. These are not your average courses. A taxidermy course should get you geared toward producing high quality mounts in the most efficient way…reducing the learning curve and getting to the point. We teach what you need to know to put yourself in the right frame of mind for accelerated learning. I teach you my methods and some alternate methods but over time you will develop some of your own and this course will set the conditions for that continued learning. After your course, I remain available to you as a consultant to help you with technical issues or should you decide to go into business on some level, to assist you and provide you with some tools to help you get started. I do this for all my students at no additional charge and no additional obligation. Most of our student have expressed interest in returning for other courses. Some already have. Our students remain in continuous contact…they feel at home with us and are not afraid to pick up the phone or send an email if they need some help with something. I am always available to them.

Taxidermy Tech


One of the things that sets this program apart from others is that it is almost always a one-on-one setting and never more than two (the exception is our 2 and 3 Day group workshops). Another advantage is that you can also schedule your course or program based on dates you want to come providing that period is not already booked on our calendar. We are able to do this because of our one-on-one format. This is helpful in that we can usually work with your vacation or work schedule. We can also design a course to meet your needs…all courses are modular. You decide what you want to focus on and the amount of time available and we will develop a program. It is a literal buffet of courses that you can take individually or assemble into a program. There are a lot of advantages at Taxidermy Tech that may be a problem at other training institutions. Bottom line is this…we can work with your schedule and you budget to find the path to your goals…one step at a time. Whether you are interested in learning basic skills, improving your commercial technique or advancing in taxidermy competition, contact us today and let us create a program for you. Please go to www.taxidermytech.com Pre-Enrollment and fill it out. It is not mandatory for attendance but it will allow me to build a profile that will be helpful in developing exclusive one-on-one course work should you decide to pursue our program. You will receive a proposal for training complete with final costs and payment plan, training outline and timeline…No obligation and we won’t call you unless you ask us to. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you. God Bless you and you families!

Ken Darville

Taxidermy Tech Vocational Training Program Pensacola, Florida 32534 (850) 549-3497 Shop (850) 544-7865 Cell (844) 945-3278 www.expressionsofwildlife.com | www.taxidermytech.com



http://www.expressionsofwildlife.com/


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