or pink wax and varnish the end of
nose and any bare lip that may show. Pins and brads that will show are
drawn out and others cut off level with the skin. The head which has
hung drying on the rough board may be removed to a finished shield as
complete.

[Illustration: FINISHED HEAD.

(Author's work.)]

The paper form method has numerous advantages but is not always
convenient to procure. It will save the beginner much tedious work and
greatly expedite matters for the professional. These forms as supplied
by dealers are of the entire head and neck. By cutting off the neck at
the proper point, nailing in the neck board and screwing the plate of
bone at the base of the antlers to a block in the top of head it is
ready to receive the skin. It will require but a short time for the skin
to dry on this foundation so the finished head is often ready to return
at the end of a week.

[Illustration: PAPER HEAD FORMS FOR ELK AND DEER HEADS.]

For a number of years I have used a modification of this process. In
this the form is cast in halves which are joined on a board cut to the
outline of the head and neck. This will afford a secure attachment for
the antlers and in addition the skin of the neck may be nailed securely
each side of the opening cut, making any ripping or opening by shrinkage
at that point forever impossible.

These paper forms may be bought or made in various sizes, so by the
addition of a small amount of some modelling material any skin is
fitted. With a supply of them on hand work can be turned out rapidly
during the busy season.

These directions for mounting will apply equally in case of moose, elk
or other large game heads, always providing supports adequate for the
larger animals. A mounted head with insufficient and wabbly mechanical
construction is not a joy forever.

The head of a common sheep or ram is a good one for the beginner, as its
coat of wool covers small defects. It is a convenient size to handle and
if not entirely successful no great expense has been incurred. On the
other hand a fairly mounted ram's head is quite ornamental and suitable,
especially on the wall of a country house.

CHAPTER XVIII.

MOUNTING HORNS AND ANTLERS.

A neatly mounted set of antlers or horns are an ornament anywhere, in
the home, office or public room, and in case any one of the out-o'-door
fraternity wishes to try setting up a pair, I will give a few simple
directions and hints which may be hel