Artkraft Taxidermy

Taxidermist in North Hollywood, California

5(4 reviews)
(818) 505-842510851 Vanowen St, North Hollywood, CA 91605View on Yelp
Artkraft Taxidermy - taxidermy in North Hollywood, CA

Customer Reviews

5
out of 5
4 reviews

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About Artkraft Taxidermy

Artkraft Taxidermy is based in North Hollywood, California, serving hunters, anglers, and collectors throughout the San Fernando Valley and greater Los Angeles area. With a perfect 5.0 rating from customers, this studio has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Southern California's mild climate draws year-round outdoor activity, meaning there's steady demand for professional preservation work. Whether you're coming back from a hunting trip in the Tehachapi Mountains or a fishing charter off the coast, having a trusted local taxidermist matters.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Artkraft handles a range of preservation work including trophy mounts, fish replicas, and bird mounts. Trophy mounts involve careful skin preparation, tanning, and fitting over anatomically accurate forms to recreate a lifelike pose. Fish mounts can be done using the original skin or cast as a replica, which is especially popular for catch-and-release anglers who want to preserve the memory without keeping the fish. Bird mounts require particular skill given the delicate feather structure, and a quality studio takes care to maintain natural coloration and posture.

Service Area

Artkraft primarily serves North Hollywood and the surrounding San Fernando Valley communities, including Burbank, Studio City, and Van Nuys. Customers from across Los Angeles County also make the trip for quality work. The studio is conveniently located for anyone coming out of the eastern Ventura County area as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a typical trophy mount take at a North Hollywood taxidermist?
Most deer or big game mounts take between 6 and 12 months, depending on the studio's current workload and the complexity of the piece. Fish and bird mounts can sometimes be completed faster, often in the 3 to 6 month range.
Do I need to prepare my animal before dropping it off?
Yes, proper field care makes a big difference in the final result. Keep the specimen cool or frozen as soon as possible, avoid cutting the skin near the area you want mounted, and don't leave it in a warm vehicle for long.
Can a taxidermist work with specimens that were legally harvested out of state?
Generally yes, but you'll need to provide documentation showing the animal was taken legally, such as a hunting license or tag. California has specific regulations around certain species, so it's worth confirming with the studio before you bring anything in.
What's the difference between a skin mount and a replica mount for fish?
A skin mount uses the actual fish skin stretched over a foam form, while a replica is a fiberglass cast painted to match your catch's exact markings. Replicas tend to last longer and don't shrink or fade, making them a popular choice for trophy fish.
How much does taxidermy cost in the Los Angeles area?
Pricing varies based on the type of animal and the complexity of the work. In the LA area, a shoulder mount for a deer typically runs between $400 and $700, while full body mounts or specialty pieces can cost significantly more.
Will my mount be damaged if the studio uses poor-quality materials?
Yes, low-quality tanning or cheap forms can lead to cracking, shrinkage, or pest problems over time. It's worth asking a studio about the tanning process and materials they use before committing to the work.

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