when removing the cartlidge from the ears, when is the best time to do it? before tanning or after?
thanks for the info.
maxwell
tannery then you should remove the cartilage after the cape is tanned. The cartilage helps keep the ear from popping during the tumbling process. It is also suggested by some tanneries when turning the ears and leave 1/8 to 1/4 inch of the edge unturned. This better protects the ears from blow-out. Of course you have to continue to turn the ears all the way to the edge after you have sweated the cape.
If you are doing in-house tanning where you have control over the pieces then I find it easier to remove the cartilage when it is green or fresh skinned. Just tie off the ears so they don't fill up with sawdust while they are in the tumbler.
Either way works.