Submitted by Pete on 2/10/1999. ( lebaronp@pilot.msu.edu )
I have seen some real toasty hats and mittens made out of both deer and muskrat skins, and would like to give it a try. In order to acheive this is it acceptable after skinning to: 1) soak in acidic solution to "pickle", 2) tan with an aluminum sulfate solution, 3) rub in a leather-preservative type oil (like boot grease)? If this is an appropriate sequence, how long at each step? Finally, if i just wanted the deer leather without fur, how is it removed? Thanks for any help that can be provided.
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This response submitted by Keith Daniels on 2/10/1999. ( )
Pete, until you have a little better knowledge of tanning, I really suggest you buy a "kit" put together for beginners, it will make your project much easier. I know Bruce has them, there's even a recent post, maybe under tanning? Keith
This response submitted by Pete on 2/10/1999. ( )
Thanks a lot for the advice, Keith...although i probably won't take it. Not to sound insulting, but i kinda enjoy the added pleasure of the more "do-it-yourself" approach, or better put, i'm stubborn and love doing things a little different. That is to say for my duck mounts (which i am more acustom to), i enjoy experimenting a lot, and using everything from pressed packing material to shredded paper wrapped in twine for my body forms. I am embarassed to say all the crazy things i've used for necks and heads...but those are my highest-rated birds.
I was just wondering if the scheme i outlined above is ACCEPTABLE, not necessarily if it is THE ACCEPTED way to tan a hide. All that being said, i do realize that Keith's advice is more wise, since my way has a learning curve which kicks my tail (you should see my FIRST few birds! - trial and error is an ugly way to learn).
Anyway, if anyone could verify, or modify the steps listed above it would help me a lot. Thanks again.
This response submitted by Keith on 2/11/1999. ( )
Pete, your steps are pretty much right, but the materials you use, and how you use them will make a night and day difference. The one thing you do need to do, get some oil specifically formulted for tanning, don't use boot grease, it won't hold up. Good Luck, Keith
This response submitted by Pete on 2/11/1999. ( )
Thanks a ton Keith - i'll give it a shot! Take it easy, Pete.
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