Joe Meder

Taxidermist in Solon, Iowa

(319) 644-22612737 Lake View Dr NE, Solon, IA 52333View on Yelp

About Joe Meder

Joe Meder operates a taxidermy studio in Solon, Iowa, a growing community in Johnson County just northeast of Iowa City. The area is surrounded by productive farmland and timber that consistently produces quality whitetail deer, making taxidermy services a regular need for local hunters. Working with an individual practitioner like Joe means you're dealing with one person who handles your mount from start to finish, not a production shop. You can reach the studio at (319) 644-2261 to discuss your project directly.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Joe Meder's studio covers the taxidermy work that Johnson County hunters most commonly need. Whitetail deer shoulder mounts are the bread and butter of most Iowa studios, involving careful cape preparation, form fitting, and detailed facial finishing to capture the natural look of the animal. Turkey and pheasant mounts are also common given the strong upland and turkey hunting in this part of the state. Antler mounting and skull cleaning are straightforward options for hunters who want to display their harvest without a full mount.

Service Area

Joe Meder serves Solon and the surrounding Johnson County area, with easy access from Iowa City, North Liberty, and nearby rural communities. Hunters from across the Iowa City corridor and eastern Johnson County find this studio a convenient and personal option for their taxidermy work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a solo taxidermist different from a larger studio?
With a solo practitioner, one person handles your mount from beginning to end, which means consistent quality and a single point of contact. You're not relying on multiple technicians with varying skill levels, and communication tends to be more straightforward.
How do I know what size form to use for my deer?
Your taxidermist will measure the neck circumference and nose-to-eye distance of your deer to match it to the right commercial form. Getting these measurements right is important because a form that's too large or too small will distort the finished mount.
Can I get a mount done in time for a holiday gift?
It depends on when you bring in the specimen and the current workload. Taxidermy takes months to complete properly, so a deer taken in November isn't realistically going to be ready by Christmas. It's best to think of a mount as a long-term keepsake rather than a quick turnaround gift.
What's involved in an antler mounting?
Antler mounting involves attaching the antlers and skull plate to a finished panel or plaque, often with a decorative cap to cover the skull plate. It's a clean and cost-effective way to display a set of antlers without a full shoulder mount.
Is deer hunting around Solon and Johnson County productive?
Yes, Johnson County holds a healthy deer population with good habitat created by the mix of corn and soybean fields and wooded draws. Hunters in this area regularly take respectable bucks, and local taxidermists see a steady flow of work each fall.
How do I store my mount once it's home?
Keep your mount away from direct sunlight, which fades the hair and skin over time. Humid environments can also cause issues, so avoid placing mounts in basements or garages with poor climate control. A gentle dusting every few months keeps it looking its best.

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