I want to start home taxidermy but tanning the hide is my biggest problem. What is the best way to tan hides. Is a tanning creme a good way to go or do i have to put the hide through a series of solutions for a good result.
Return to Beginners Category Menu
Dustin, I'm a bit old fashioned but think tanning in a traditional way works best-at least for me. If you do only a few mounts and don't want to mess with it you might consider just skinning and salting then sending to a tanner. There may be someone near you who you could pay to fully prep the skins or you might want to consider using krotan. I've never used it but know those who love it for having fewer steps before mounting. There are many ways to arrive at the same place in taxidermy,this is why there are so many oppinions. I would say try some different things and settle on what works best for you. Enjoy, Aaron H.
Aaron has the right idea. Try different things to see what you like.
I have tried a lot of different tans, I even got excelent results with all of them.
I like the cream tans because there is no waste water to dispose of, except the pickling water. I also like it because I skip the step of oiling the skin because the tan is mixed with oil to make the cream.
I have not tried Krowtan, but I have heard the same things as Aaron.
There is to many different ways to do things now days to try adn convince somone that one way is best.
Feel free to email me with questions if you want.
I will say this, If you tan anything, follow the directions to the "T". Variations from them, will result in problems.