How to Make Antler Replicas
Taxidermy is expensive and time-consuming but, if you want to add a touch of fun and whimsy, try making antlers to mount above the fireplace. Save yourself even more money by using old corrugated cardboard boxes. If you want a set of large antlers, use appliance boxes, which are bigger. Practice making a small set of antler replicas first, using boxes from your local grocery store.
Instructions
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Download a template from the Internet, such as from the Chronicle Books (chroniclebooks.com) or the Activity Village (activityvillage.co.uk) website, for antlers. You also can design your own. Use the pencil to draw the main branch of the antlers on your cardboard. The antlers should be about 2 feet high and the main branch about 3 to 4 inches wide. The antler should taper off at the ends. Make the base 3 feet wide so as to hold up the weight.
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Draw six offshoot branches from the main antler branch. These should be slightly thinner at 2 to 3 inches wide. They should taper off at the ends. Do not extend the branches too much or the cardboard will bend.
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Cut out the antler with a craft knife. Place the antler on a fresh piece of cardboard.
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Trace the outline of the antler onto the second piece of cardboard and cut out. Tape the antlers to your wall, to a headband, to a piece of wood to mount over the fireplace or to the front of your car or bicycle.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a sharp craft knife for best results.
Use a cutting board to avoid damaging your work surface.
Tape the edges of the antlers to avoid paper cuts.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
