Casual Taxidermy; The Art of Skinning a Rat

a lesson in amateur taxidermy with Canada’s, Teta Kika!

Join us for an 8-hour intensive hands-on lesson, in which you will transform a deceased rat into a unique and enduring art object.

2 workshop dates to choose from, $200pp Please email to reserve your space today!

Saturday, January 10th 2015 10am to 6pm

Sunday, January 11th 2015 10am to 6pm

Reserve your seat today! This link takes you to Teta Kika’s web page where you can choose your date and sign up!

What will I learn?

You will be guided through the steps of skinning, stuffing, posing, and pinning your specimen, all the way through to adding costumes and accessories to the final piece. At the end of the day, you will come away with a figure that is set to begin its curing process.

What do I get?

Each participant will be provided with a student kit that includes:

Nitrile gloves

a rat specimen

scalpel

bead eyes

stitching materials

pins

and all supplies and the knowledge required to create a finished taxidermic rat.

What should I bring?

No special equipment or supplies are required of participants, but you may want to bring an apron. Although the process is less messy than you might think, it’s advisable to wear closed-toed shoes and clothing you won’t mind getting a bit dirty.

Though we will provide some supplies for posing (fabrics and basic hand-sewing supplies), you may want to bring props and accessories for your finished product. Note: an adult rat is about the size of a Barbie doll, but with a more realistic waistline. Keep this in mind when choosing furniture or props for your piece.

Oh, and bring a box large enough to transport your finished piece. :)

The Day’s Schedule:

10AM – 2PM: Skinning and stuffing

Basic hide skinning techniques as related to rats.

During this time, we will go through code of ethics, process of sourcing, preparing, skinning, stuffing and stitching up your new rat.

2PM – 3PM: Lunch Break

Class is located between Bloor & College with plenty of food offerings!

3PM – 6PM Posing, Pinning and Final Touches

We will go through positioning and pinning, drying times and proper care of your new rat. You will have some time to work on your finishing touches.

Reserve your seat today! This link takes you to Teta Kika’s web page where you can choose your date and sign up!