5 Easy Steps To Diy Turkey Fan Mount

Thanksgiving is more than just a feast; for many, it's a time to engage in or appreciate the tradition of turkey hunting. If you or someone you know participates in this age-old practice, then you'll understand the pride that comes with displaying the fan of a turkey, which includes its tail feathers and beard. Creating a DIY turkey fan mount is not only a great way to preserve this emblem of your hunt but also adds a personal touch to your home decor. Here's how you can make your own turkey fan mount in just five easy steps:

Gather Your Materials 🛠️

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=DIY+turkey+fan+mount+materials" alt="Gathering materials for turkey fan mount"></div>

Before we dive into the crafting, let's ensure you have all the necessary materials:

• Turkey tail fan - This can be from your hunt or purchased if you want to practice the craft.
• Beard - Often found close to the turkey’s breast.
• Display Board - Plywood, cedar, or any wood of your choice.
• Mounting Hardware:
  • Screws
  • Wood glue
  • Ruler and pencil for measuring and marking.
• Saw - If you need to cut your wood to size.
• Stain or paint - To protect and enhance the wood's appearance.
• Measuring tape
• Drill or Screwdriver - To attach the fan to the board.

Remember, the quality of your materials can greatly influence the final outcome.

Preparing the Turkey Fan and Beard 🦃

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=preparing+turkey+fan" alt="Preparing the turkey fan and beard"></div>

1. Cleaning: Clean the turkey fan and beard with a mild soap solution to remove any dirt or oil. Pat dry with a cloth.

2. Drying: Allow the fan and beard to dry completely, either by air drying or using a fan. This helps prevent mold.

3. Shaping: Use a hairdryer on a cool setting to gently reshape the fan to its original, full-spread form.

4. Mounting preparation:

   • Check if you need to trim any uneven feathers or beard hair to make them fit neatly on your mount.
   • Consider attaching the beard to a thin piece of wood or metal to keep its shape.

   <p class="pro-note">🧠 Note: Always be gentle with the feathers, as they can be fragile. Using gloves can prevent oils from your skin affecting the feathers' color.</p>

Preparing the Mount Board 🪵

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=turkey+fan+mount+board" alt="Preparing the turkey fan mount board"></div>

1. Sizing: Decide on the size of your board. Traditional turkey fan mounts are around 20-30 inches wide and 12-18 inches tall, but customize according to your space and preference.

2. Cutting: If necessary, cut the board to your desired dimensions. Smooth the edges.

3. Marking: Sketch where the fan, beard, and any additional elements like a plaque will go on the board.

4. Finishing: Stain or paint the board. Allow it to dry completely. Optionally, you can apply a clear finish for added protection.

   <p class="pro-note">🎨 Note: Consider the color of your feathers when choosing a finish for the board. A dark finish might not make white feathers stand out, while a lighter one might complement them.</p>

Attaching the Fan and Beard 🎯

1. Drilling: If attaching with screws, pre-drill holes in the board to avoid splitting the wood.

2. Assembling: Attach the fan first:

   • If using screws, attach the fan at its base, ensuring it's centered on the board.
   • Use glue on the back of the fan's base to ensure it sticks well to the board.
   • Then, position and attach the beard below or around the fan base, again securing with glue or screws.

3. Alignment: Ensure everything is centered and aligned as planned in your design.

   <p class="pro-note">🔧 Note: Use a level to make sure the fan is mounted straight. An uneven mount can throw off the whole display.</p>

Final Touches and Display 🏅

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=turkey+fan+mount+final+touches" alt="Adding final touches to the turkey fan mount"></div>

• Finishing touches: If you want, add small plaques or metal strips with the turkey's statistics, date, or a personal message.

• Hanging: Attach hanging hardware to the back of your mount. D-rings or wire eyelets work well.

• Show it off: Find the perfect spot in your home or cabin to display your hard work.

  <p class="pro-note">🏡 Note: Mount it at eye level for the best visual impact.</p>

To summarize, crafting your own DIY turkey fan mount can be a rewarding experience, enhancing the memories of your hunt or simply adding rustic charm to your decor. This project, while simple, allows you to showcase a piece of the great outdoors that you've personally touched and cared for. Enjoy your display, and may it remind you of the skills and memories forged during your hunting adventures!

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Do I need special tools to make a turkey fan mount?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>No, basic tools like a saw, drill, screwdriver, and glue are sufficient. However, having more refined tools can make the job easier.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I mount a store-bought turkey fan?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, you can use a purchased turkey fan for practice or if you don’t have a fan from a hunt.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I keep the feathers from getting damaged?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Handle feathers gently, avoid high humidity, and consider a protective spray to keep dust and pests away.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Where should I hang the turkey fan mount?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Ideal locations include hunting cabins, family rooms, or entryways where it can be a conversation piece.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I remove or change the mounting later?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, with care, you can disassemble and reconfigure the mount if needed, but always prioritize the condition of the feathers.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>