Submitted by brat on 6/25/99. ( brat@catisle.net )
I am trying to make a hat band out of a rattler that was brought to my animal hosp. (explanation on request :-)) I have never even thought about hunting, skinning, tanning or anything else of that sort, but couldn't resist the opportunity to try. so far I have skinned it, salted it and pinned it to dry. i am ready for the next step, but what is it!!? any help would be greatly appreciated, this will probably be the only chance I will have at this, I would like it to look good. I also saved the rattle for a key chain, any sugg? thanks, brat.
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This response submitted by George Roof on 6/25/99. ( georoof@aol.com )
Brat,
Go the the suppliers on the homepage. Most carry a reptile tan kit that will include everything you need (or tell you what you can use from your kitchen) as well as instructions. Welcome to our world.
This response submitted by Bruce rittel on 6/25/99. ( rittel@ici.net )
George gave you some good advice - but when you shop around, make sure that the method you use to tan it produces real leather and isnt just a taxidermy preservative for mounting specimens. There are a lot of concoctions on the market that everyone uses for mounting, but when you do a hatband or a belt - you need leather to withstand any strain or heat that it may be subjected to, as well as a long and useful life for the peice. Ron Carter wrote an excellent article on making Snakeskin belts - it may help you. If you'd like a copy - E-Mail me your mailing address and I'll forward it to you.
This response submitted by brat on 6/26/99. ( brat@catisle.net )
thanks for the info, wish me luck!!! brat
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