Custom Axis Deer Hunting Pillows: Making Cherished Keepsakes

The Popularity of Axis Deer Pillows

Axis deer, also known as chital deer or spotted deer, are beautiful animals that can be found in parts of India and Sri Lanka. In recent years, axis deer have grown in popularity among hunters in places like Texas. As more hunters take to the field in search of these deer, the demand for axis deer hunting memorabilia and decor has also risen. One popular axis deer hunting keepsake is custom throw pillows made from the deer's hide.

Why Axis Deer Pillows Are Unique

An axis deer pillow makes for an eye-catching addition to any rustic or lodge-themed decor. The white spots on these deer's reddish-brown fur gives them a striking appearance. When turned into a pillow, the spots stand out brightly against the surrounding hide. An axis pillow displays the deer's one-of-a-kind natural beauty for years to come.

In addition to appearance, axis deer pillows also provide comfort. The soft, supple feel of deer hide creates a pillow that conforms to the user's body. Deer fur offers next-level coziness that synthetic materials simply can't replicate. For hunters that spend long days in deer blinds and on hunting leases, a comfy axis pillow is a treasured item.

Customizing Your Axis Deer Pillow

Another advantage of axis deer pillows from hunts is that each one is unique. Since no two deer have the same exact fur pattern, each custom pillow displays its own distinctive look. Hunters can customize the shape and size of the pillow form to best display the section of the deer hide they choose. Everything from square throw pillows to large resting pillows can be made depending on personal preference.

The ability to customize also allows hunters to intentionally position the deer fur for the best display of spots, colors, and patterns. Many hunters choose to use the section of hide featuring the deer's white underside and legs to highlight the beautiful contrast. For hunters looking to emphasize a particular feature, axis pillows made to order provide unlimited options.

Displays That Celebrate the Hunt

For many hunters, the ability to display prizes from special hunts is a way to relive memories long after the hunt is over. By nature, axis deer are exceptionally wary and have highly acute senses of sight, sound, and smell. Bagging one requires skill, strategy, patience, and often a little luck. For this reason, trophies like axis fur pillows represent more than just decoration - they symbolize achievement.

In areas like Texas where axis deer numbers continue to rise, hunters have more opportunities to pursue these special deer. Displaying keepsakes like pillows, mounts, and horns are a source of pride for hunters. Not only do they add beautiful accents to the home, but they also serve as life-long reminders of memorable hunts.

Shopping for Your Custom Axis Pillow

The good news for hunters is that there are more and more options for custom axis deer pillows and other keepsakes. Specialty taxidermy shops offer pillow-making services where hunters can send in their deer hides after successful hunts. Turnaround times vary based on the shop's workload and other factors.

Key Things to Look For

When researching shops for custom pillows, here are some key things to look out for:

• Quality of workmanship - Be sure to look at examples of previous pillows made by the shop you choose. This will give you a good idea of the quality you can expect. Look for clean stitching, proper shaping, and good hide preparation.
• Variety of options - See what options the shop offers in terms of pillow fill, cover fabrics, sizes, and shapes. Reputable shops will provide multiple choices to suit your preference.
• Responsiveness - Making custom hunting keepsakes takes good communication between the shop and customers. See how quickly and thoroughly they respond to inquiries to determine if they will meet your needs.

Taking the time to find the right taxidermy shop for your axis deer pillow will ensure you get a high-quality piece you'll enjoy for many years. The right keepsake becomes a meaningful memory of a special hunt.

Preparing Your Axis Deer Hide

In order for your custom deer fur pillow to last, proper hide preparation is a must. Here are some tips hunters should keep in mind:

Field Care

Proper hide care starts immediately after the deer is harvested. Quick field dressing helps cool the deer and prevent bacteria from spreading across the fur. Use knives carefully when skinning to prevent excessive damage or holes.

Fleshing & Salting

Once the hide is removed, gently scrape away any leftover flesh or membrane tissue. Apply a liberal layer of salt to penetrate deep into the skin side of the hide. This draws out moisture and prevents decomposition during shipping.

Drying & Storing

After salting the hide, shake off any excess crystals before rolling up the skin and storing in a freezer. This preserves the hide until you're ready to ship to your pillow maker. Be sure to keep the fur side clean and brush it out if needed before sending.

With the right field care and preparation, your axis deer hide will display beautifully in the form of a custom hunting pillow you'll cherish for a lifetime.

FAQs

What size axis deer pillow should I order?

Axis deer pillow sizes typically range from 14 to 26 inches square. Consider where you want to display your pillow. Smaller 14-18 inch pillows work well on beds, chairs, and sofas. Larger pillows around 24-26 inches make great floor pillows in rustic living rooms or game rooms.

What shape options are there for custom axis pillows?

The most popular axis deer pillow shape is square because it displays the full deer hide nicely. However, many shops also offer rectangular pillows in varying dimensions to fit different spaces. Some may also provide round, oval, or even heart-shaped pillow options upon request.

What types of fills are best for deer hide pillows?

Down and down-alternative fills provide softness and comfort many customers like. They conform to your body as you relax into the pillow. Poly-fill options offer more firmness and support for those who prefer that feel. Ask your taxidermy shop about the fill types they recommend based on the pillow's intended use.

How long will it take to have my custom pillow made?

Turnaround times vary amongst taxidermy shops based on their current workloads. Most shops quote 2-6 weeks from the time they receive your deer hide until the finished pillow ships out. Busier times of year like right after deer season may result in longer wait times. Reputable shops are upfront about time estimates.