A guy I work with asked me to perform some magic on his dads elk skull. I was hesitant at first.

This bull was shot in December of 1989 and hung in a barn ever since. The skull was in good shape as far as the skull was concerned but was a dirty mess. The antlers were good shape but faded bad. So here is the before and after pics.

I rehydrated the skull, and beetle cleaned it. Degreased the best I could with a skull being neglected for 35 years. Came out pretty good.

Before:






These are after the whole process. The pictures are not the best but I think it shows the detail and color the anlters came out with.

You did a fantastic job

That looks awesome. What did you use on the antlers to bring the color and shade back?

Looks awesome!

I'd like to know what you used as well. I have 2 whitetail skulls/antlers that were exposed to the elements for about a year or so, and I was thinking about trying to make them look "new" again.

I use stain/paint/etc.... To achieve the results. All antlers are different and take stain differently.

Its trial and error and go with the flow. Highlight natural rub marks and then seal.

I have a bit of experience in this area and like bringing the natural color back.

Thanks. You did a great job.

When you say "seal" are you talking about a top-coat layer beyond the stain?

Amazing job.

Yes a spray seal. Sometimes its a good idea, sometimes its not. Sometimes it gives it a fake shine that dont look good.

Awesome job!

Looks great

Great job sir

You did a great job bulldog. Love looking at your euros.

Thanks

Really nice!

Looks great!

Wow!

looks great..

Looks great.