Mounting Tips for Fishworks Fish Forms by Tom Sexton


Measuring:


Only two measurements are required for Fishworks Forms.


To obtain the correct length measurement, lift the gill cover and place the tape at the front edge of where the two bones of the pectoral girdle meet and measure down the length of the fish to where the scales stop at the base of the tail.


The length measurement can be adjusted up or down by 1/2 inch to select a form size.


The girth is measured halfway between the pelvic fins and the anus.


Do no pull the tape too tight.


Girth can also be adjusted up or down by 1/2 inch to select form size.



Skinning:


Trim all fin roots close to the skin.


Cut backbone all the way up to where it attaches at the head (this area is located directly under the skin at the back of the roof of the mouth).


Note: Pay special attention, if these bones are not trimmed close, the skin will not fit properly next to the form.


The bones on the side of the head should be trimmed very close to allow them to fit against the side of the form properly.



Soaking the Skin:


Soak skin overnight in solution of two gallons of water, 1 1/4 cups of Borax, and two teaspoons concentrated Lysol.


Remove skin from soak and dry with towels to remove excess moisture (dryer skins are easier to work with).



Test Fitting the Skin:


Prop the mouth open with a length of wire placed inside the mouth (this helps pre-set the head position.


Wrap the skin around the form checking for proper length and girth fit.



Form Preparation:


Begin by cutting an oval shaped hole in the throat of the form about 3/4 inch deep.


Then apply a suitable hide paste to the entire form (we have found that the LifeTone hide paste does not require sanding the form).




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