Step 1: Take the length and girth measurements for ordering mannikin. Test fit the skin starting at the tail and working toward the back and the head. This is the time for correcting discrepancies.

Step 2: Sand smooth any rough seams using 80 grit sandpaper. It is not necessary to sand the entire mannikin.

Step 3: Fill and smooth the fin butt areas using water-based clay. The clay will allow you to achieve a full, fleshy look when the fins are seated.

Step 4: Apply Polytranspar Hide Paste to the show side. Begin mounting the skin at the caudal fin. Work out air bubbles by pushing them to the back side. Keep the skin mount and clean by spraying it with Windex.

Step 5: Apply hide paste to the back side and pull the seam together. Staple the seam using 3/8" staples. Also staple around the edge of the head skin and gill skin.

Step 6: Staple galvanized wire screen behind the caudal fin for carding. Any splits in the caudal fin can be repaired with Zap-A-Gap after cleaning the area with acetone.

Step 7: Pin, pose and card all of the fins using Polysoft Mesh on the back side and Polysoft sheet on the show side. Card the adipose fin. After drying, shrinkage can be rebuilt using Apoxie Sculpt.

Step 8: Cut a "V" in the mannikin to accommodate the artificial head. The gill flaps can be heated and adjusted to fit snugly against the skin.