I have had an overwhelming amount of interest from many individuals in offering engaging classes or hands-on workshops, which is why I have made the decision to host a select handful of these workshops each year. Openings will be limited to just 2-3 workshops annually to ensure a focused and meaningful experience for each participant. It has taken me over a decade, along with tens of thousands of dollars spent on trial and error, to develop and refine the effective techniques I employ in my shop for crafting high-quality replicas. With this workshop, you will have the opportunity to significantly reduce the learning curve and alleviate the financial burden that often accompanies the trial and error process prevalent in the mold-making industry. With that being said, this endeavor is truly an investment in yourself and in your promising future. Trade schools and colleges aren’t known for being inexpensive, and pursuing this workshop is no different in that regard.
The classes would be structured to last between 3.5 to 4 days in total and will take place at my well-equipped shop located in beautiful Apple Valley, Utah. The workshops are designed to encompass all essential aspects of making intricate antler and horn replicas, starting from the proper preparation work at the beginning all the way through to finishing techniques, painting, and the addition of fine details. For workshop options 1 through 3, you will have the flexibility to bring along either 2 smaller animals, such as deer or sheep, OR opt to bring 1 larger animal, like an elk or a moose. By the end of the workshop, you will leave with a beautifully completed replica of that/those animal(s), as well as a comprehensive handbook that thoroughly covers everything we discussed throughout the classes.
Along with the workshop options 1 and 2, you will have access to me via phone or FaceTime to assist you with your own projects for a duration of 6 months after leaving the workshop. This initial period is designed to provide you with the support you need as you apply what you've learned. After the first 6 months, I remain available to help, but my accessibility will gradually decrease. While I will still be willing to offer guidance and advice as needed, it will not be at the same level of availability as during the foundational months post-workshop. This structure is in place to ensure that you have ample opportunity to develop your skills with direct support, while also paving the way for independent growth and learning in the long term.
Following workshop options 1 and 2, I would like to propose a referral partnership with you. In my personal shop, I often find myself turning down more work than I actually take in, which means I would be eager to send you some of this overflow. For each referral that decides to commit to your services, I will require a $100 referral fee, while you will keep the remainder of the payment. This arrangement only applies to the work that I personally send directly to you, ensuring clarity and simplicity in our partnership. Any clients that you manage to attract organically will remain entirely yours to maintain and nurture. The ultimate goal with this collaboration is to create a strong network of wildlife replicators who support each other and operate effectively like a cohesive team. The industry has been notoriously competitive and cutthroat for many years, and many newcomers have found it quite challenging to break in due to the high barriers to entry and the scarcity of useful information available online.
$10,000 - Both food and lodging will be completely covered as part of this offer. I will arrange accommodations for you in a nice hotel or comfortable Airbnb, ensuring your stay is pleasant. Additionally, I will provide lunch, dinner, snacks, and a variety of beverages each day to keep you refreshed. You will receive full referrals through the partnership program, and dedicated assistance for a duration of six months to support your learning. If needed, I can also arrange for airport pickup and drop-off at the Las Vegas airport for your convenience. This comprehensive package includes full one-on-one, hands-on learning, making it the absolute best way to get started on creating replicas and launching your own business! The program is very in-depth and designed to provide extensive, practical experience.
$8,500 - This option features the same workshop structure as option 1, with the sole distinction being that food and lodging are not included in this package. Participants will benefit from a comprehensive referral partnership, along with dedicated support for a duration of 6 months following the workshop. This experience emphasizes a personalized approach through one-on-one interactions, allowing for hands-on learning and skill development.
$7,000 - This fee covers the complete workshop experience along with all necessary materials provided during the session. Please be aware that there are no additional referrals included, and you will not have access to my assistance after the workshop concludes. Once you leave the premises, you will need to be self-reliant and apply what you have learned independently. This program offers a full one-on-one, hands-on learning experience tailored to enhance your skills effectively.
The cost for this unique workshop is $5,000 for a duration of three days. It will take place in a group setting that accommodates 2 to 3 students, along with myself as your instructor. Unlike the previous options, this workshop will have a different structure and format. Your main role will be to observe closely and take comprehensive notes throughout the sessions. While there will be certain segments that include hands-on experience, the primary focus of this option will be on watching and learning in a collaborative group environment. To enhance your experience, snacks and lunch will be provided each day. However, please note that you will need to arrange and cover your own lodging for the duration of the workshop. Since this is a group setting, scheduling availability will be limited, and we will not offer any opportunity for referral partnerships associated with this option. Additionally, participants will not be permitted to bring their own animals to the workshop for molding practice; instead, you will observe my work as I explain the various processes in detail.
To reserve your spot in the workshop, a deposit of $2,000 is required upon registration. The remaining payment is then due as soon as you arrive at the workshop on the first day. You have the flexibility to schedule a workshop as far in advance as you would like, allowing ample time for planning. I understand that the courses are not inexpensive, which can give you additional time to save any funds that you may need for this worthwhile investment. Please note that Option 4 schedules are not as flexible as other options because it is a group workshop, so all participating parties will need to agree on a specific day for the session, and Option 4 workshops will take place exclusively during the summer months.
Please keep in mind that my average transaction for the past six years has consistently been around $2,600. It is important to note that most of the time, clients choose to order more than one reproduction of their cherished animal. Given those numbers, it will take a total of four jobs to effectively return your investment in yourself and your artistic ambitions.
I do not know of a single wildlife replicator who does not have enough work; in fact, most of them are often buried under a mountain of tasks and find themselves struggling to maintain turnaround times that are perceived as fair. I am a firm believer that if there were a greater number of replicators available and more easily accessible to the public, more individuals would undoubtedly take advantage of this valuable service. This is precisely my goal in hosting these workshops—to contribute to a vibrant industry that can truly boom!