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Copi Khatz Creations Sep 24, 2012

Hi
I was hoping to get some advice regarding taxidermy eyes, specifically the type shaped like a dome, without a loop at the back.  I have only ever used these for porcelain doll making before, but know that some artists have had great success using them for bears.  What is the best way to secure them? 
Many thanks,
Claire. 

Christina Sep 24, 2012

I fill the hole at the back of the eyes with Apoxie Sculpt, and put a wire loop in it. After drying, the Apoxie Sculpt is very hard, and the wire loop can't get loose.

desertmountainbear Sep 24, 2012

I fill the inside with Fabric Fusion glue.  I place them into needle sculpted sockets.  I then needle felt both upper and lower lids. They are very secure.

I have done them similar to Christina too. I have super glued a small eye with a wire into the back of the eye, and then just set them as usual.

Copi Khatz Creations Sep 24, 2012

Hi Christina and Joanne
Many thanks for your help, I look forward to trying that.  I bought some taxidermy eyes a while ago that I will now be able to put to use. 
Cheers,
Claire.   

Copi Khatz Creations Sep 26, 2012

Thanks again for the above advice; the technique works well.  I bent up a stainless steel loop using pliers, then filled the back of the eye with light curing gel and used a UV gun to set the loop in place.  It is very sturdy. 

BlackmoonBear Sep 26, 2012

I use very large taxidermy eyes, so my method is a bit different and may not apply to your use, but I fill the back with Loc-Tite two stage epoxy, then sink a  loop wire into it that has a spiral bent on the opposite end so it can't pull out.

whatever adhesive you use, you MUST be sure of two things. First that what youa re using can adhere to super smooth glasslike surfaces (the "paint" used on the backs of those new ulra-realistic eyes is kiln baked, it's like the glossy finish baked on ceramics)
Secondly, that what you're using won't shrink after hardening completely, as it will then easily let go and cause the eye to pop right off .Remember that some adhesives can take weeks to completely harden out, so give your "test" lots of time.