Tanning a hide with the hair intact is a challenging but rewarding process, preserving a valuable piece of nature and creating a unique, durable product. This detailed guide will walk you through the steps, offering tips and tricks for success. This process requires patience and attention to detail; rushing any step can ruin the hide.
Preparing the Hide: The Foundation of Success
Before you even think about tanning, proper preparation is crucial. This stage sets the tone for the entire process.
1. Fleshing: Removing Excess Tissue
The first step involves fleshing the hide. This means removing all excess flesh, fat, and membrane from the skin side. A fleshing beam or a sharp drawknife are ideal tools. Thorough fleshing prevents putrefaction and ensures even tanning. Any remaining tissue will hinder the tanning process and lead to a less durable final product.
2. Cleaning: Purity is Key
After fleshing, thoroughly clean the hide. Use plenty of clean water to rinse away any remaining debris. A pressure washer can be helpful for larger hides. Ensure the hide is completely free of blood and other contaminants. Residual matter can impede the tanning process and cause unpleasant odors in the finished product.
3. Salting: Preserving the Hide
Salting is critical for preservation. Generously salt both sides of the hide, ensuring all areas are covered. Use non-iodized salt; iodized salt can interfere with the tanning process. Allow the salt to draw out moisture for several days, turning and re-salting the hide as needed. This process prevents bacterial growth and helps to preserve the hide's structure.
The Tanning Process: Transforming the Hide
Once the hide is properly prepared, you can begin the tanning process. Several methods exist, but this guide will focus on a traditional brain tanning method, well-suited for preserving hair.
1. Soaking: Rehydrating the Hide
Soak the hide in clean, cool water for several hours to rehydrate it. The salt will need to be leached out completely. Regularly change the water to ensure the salt is thoroughly removed. Improper soaking can result in a hide that is difficult to work with.
2. Brain Tanning: Nature's Softener
Brain tanning utilizes the natural enzymes found in animal brains to soften and preserve the hide. This traditional method yields a supple, durable, and uniquely textured hide. Carefully clean and mix the brains, ensuring they are completely emulsified. Mix them with water, adding the mixture gradually to the hide while working it into the skin. This process requires patience and careful attention to ensure even penetration.
3. Smoking (Optional): Adding Durability and Water Resistance
Smoking the hide after brain tanning adds additional durability and water resistance. This is a traditional method that enhances the hide's longevity and also gives it a characteristic smoky scent and color. Use a low, slow smoke for several hours to ensure even penetration of the smoke into the hide's fibers.
4. Drying: The Final Stage
The final step is to dry the hide slowly and evenly. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources which can cause the hide to become stiff and brittle. Proper drying is essential to prevent shrinkage and maintain the hide's suppleness. Use a cool, well-ventilated area to dry the hide gradually.
Maintaining Your Hair-On Hide
Once tanned, your hide requires proper care to maintain its quality and longevity. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Regularly brush the hair to remove dirt and debris, ensuring its continued beauty and longevity.
This detailed guide offers a comprehensive overview of tanning a hide with hair on. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to success. Each hide is unique, and you may need to adjust the process slightly depending on the type of animal and the specific conditions. With careful execution, you can preserve a piece of nature's artistry for years to come.
