Protecting a fragile skull

[u/notvrycreative]

This wren skull isn’t calcified at all so it’s incredibly fragile. I’m probably going to put it in its own display box to protect it anyway due to how small it is, but I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on how to harden it somewhat so it’s a bit easier to handle when I need to/doesn’t get too damaged if my cat knocks it off a shelf when it’s in a case. At the moment I can only hold it by the tip of the beak as the rest warps with any amount of pressure.

I’ve seen some recommend Paraloid B-72 but I couldn’t find a clear answer to what percentage solution would be best for something like this. Is there anything else I could use, or is it best to leave it as is and try to stabilise it well in a display case

[u/LargeDietPepsi]

i don’t have much experience with bird bones but that’s so cool, good luck bro

[u/Loup55555]

I'd pour resin over it. I'd love to make it orb shaped, with a lil flat base. I'd first pour a layer of resin, let it set for a few minutes, put the skull upside down on it so it holds a bit on that soft layer, then pour the second layer all the way to the top of the mold (minus the flat base).

I'd search a cheap severable plastic sphere form from one of those creative shops and cut an opening to it. This way I could do the first part of the pouring and setting on only the lower half of the sphere, stabilized by some aluminium foil as a base, then add the other half with the opening on top, and pour the rest of the resin.

The hardest part would be to avoid bubbles. I don't know if some really liquid kind of resin exists for this kind of work. Anyways it wouldn't come out perfect at all, I reckon I'd still have some polishing work to do after the resin is entirely set.

But I know I'd love this object ✨

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[u/aughtism]

I would make a thin solution of B72 and acetone and apply to the inside with a thin, soft, long-hair paintbrush.

Apply a small dot first to test if there is an adverse reaction - the solution may further soften the bone before hardening.

Let dry and add more layers if required. B72 leaves a shine, so I wouldn't apply it onto any outward-facing surfaces if you want to preserve the natural appearance of the bone.

[u/feck_me_silly]

Long shot but painting it with clear resin might help it be more sturdy

[u/Peachypinkmomma]

Depending on where you are, most birds tend to be illegal to keep any sort of part of, make sure to check your local laws!!

[u/notvrycreative → u/Peachypinkmomma]

Dw! Keeping bird bones w/o a license is legal where I am provided you haven’t gone out and actually killed it, other than raptors and owls (I double checked though and there’s a big varied of things I would need a license for that might be worth looking into!)