Weird Crafts: Faux taxidermy

I have already featured real taxidermy, so let's talk about faux taxidermy! 

Faux taxidermy is dear to my heart, but I couldn't even tell you why. I love animals, but I can't stand to see their dead parts hanging on the wall. Faux taxidermy is a great way to bridge that gap, and have some fun at it as well. It plays on the tradition of taxidermy, and can accommodate just about any crafting style.

If you want to make your own faux taxidermy, one of the best places to start is by buying a taxidermy form. These are what actual taxidermists use to create their works. Instead of gluing an animal skin to the form, you can decorate it to your heart's content. (I see there are several Etsy sellers who are buying the taxidermy forms, painting them, and selling them at a steep mark-up. Why not just paint your own, and save yourself the money?)

Arguably the most famous example of faux taxidermy is Rachel Denny's works, including "Zipper Buck." Denny exhibits her works in art galleries, and they sell for a pretty penny. She knits elaborate "skins" for her taxidermy forms, including shaping, textured cables, and more. They are as beautiful as they are funny.

It seems like almost any craft could be used to create faux taxidermy. I have seen faux taxidermy projects made from knit or sewn stuffed heads, cardboard, papier mache, polymer clay, and needle felting, just to name a few. You can take your inspiration from the sites that sell taxidermy forms, from nature documentaries, or from children's books. (Just look at these Beatrix Potter-inspired wall hooks! So adorable!)

Faux taxidermy has an innocence that lends itself to the lighthearted and whimsical. Just look at this moose form decorated with Swarovski crystals, or this weird monster rug!

Image courtesy Flickr/steevithak