Start slow and practice, practice, and practice more. Good references are a must. When you get to a certain point, "you will know", then start taking in work. To be a good taxidermist you need customers, and the only way to get them is to produce good work and enjoy your job. I would start out reading and studying videos. You can take mini classes at some collages and not spend your left lung on a very costly School course. Good luck.