need to know once i get my capes back from the tannery(dry tanned)and do not have any measurements and need to get them to order mannikins, what do i need to do to get the proper measurements? if i have to rehydrate them do i need to freeze them afterwards. any help would be appreciated. thanks
Return to Beginners Category Menu
rehydrate your hides in cold water. You can add some salt with it if you like. I never soak them longer than 30 minutes. Put in a bag and leave in the refrigerator over night. The next day your hides will be soft and stretchable. Stretch out the neck as much as possible and take your measurements as usual. Don't stretch out the face. This way it won't fit too tight on the manikin which you don't want. Afterwards I usually do my prep work on the cape, all the sewing it needs and boboing the ears. Make sure the ears are dry enough before bondoing or you might get drumming. After that put it in the freezer until you are ready to mount it.