I'm intersting in getting started in doing the art of taxidermy..I was wondering what most taxidermists do about tanning..Do most do it their selves or is it not worth the hassle and just send it to a tannery?Which one is more cost effective?What are to costs of a auto tanner and all the necesities of tanning?Any other information would be helpful..Thanks in advance..
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It is not necessary to have an auto tanner. There are several methods that work well and are not that time consuming. planning your work schedule, and tanning can make in house tanning practical, and cost effective. It also cuts off a bit of time waiting for tanneries to get your hides back. I have used Basyn Tan DLE from Van Dykes for many years. With a citric acid pickle. Three plastic 55 gallon drums. A hydrometer, and litmus paper will get you going. a Dakota flesher makes quick work of the job. This process will even produce rug quality hides. But I do suggest you do your homework before venturing into tanning. although it is not extremely difficult. It does require some work, and knowledge. Good luck.
Barry;
To give you a true answer to your question, Send out your first hides to a tannery first, and have the pro do it for you. If your really interested in doing your own tanning, get a hold of Bruce Rittel, or buy one of his video's, or the other video's on the market on tanning, and get some good books on tanning, and practice on a few skins first. A lot of taxidermist still send out their capes and hides. It's a lot of work to tan your own skins, but after you start you'll be tanning your own capes and hides all the time. Especially smaller skins. There are a whole lot of different ways and product on the market to start you out. Read up on the products avalible to you. Then decide which best suits you. Not everyone here will agree which is the best all around tanning. So your going to have to make up your own mind. Good luck to you.
Coyote
the tannery you send the capes to takes forever to finish them. I have been waiting since Feb. for a few capes from a tannery that comes highly recommended here on the forum. I have been waiting since last November for a LS bear. Obviously the pros don't need the work. If you have the room (as I don't) it seems it would be better to tan your own.
Respondents above are correct. For an in-depth education on using Rittle's EZ-100 Tanning System...click on Amy Ritchie's website. This 17-year ole young Lady has the system down pat...easy to follow directions...You'll be pleasantly surprised and motivated by visiting Amy's fantastic website.
www.AmysTaxidermy.com
~ ETCC
Still Waiting
I remember when a famous California tannery ,during the late 70s early 80s took 12 to 14 months for delivery. My only sugestion is don't hold your breath while waiting for tanning from any one..