I'm going to tan a deer hide for my father for Christmas, and I purchased a kit from Cabela's that uses "Lutan-F" as part of the process. (that's probably not super important to my querry, but I figured it would give you an idea as to the type of process etc.) I have access to two hides, but one has been sitting frozen for nearly 3 weeks, while the other is very fresh (about 4 days). Both were removed off the deer within 6-8 hours of death. Neither have been salted or scraped or anything. My question is, will this be a problem? Will there be damage to the hide from sitting unsalted? Will I know there is damage before beginning the process (i.e. will hair be slipping from the hide immediately?) Also, what type of tool works best for scraping the hide? Like a putty knife? How hard is it to tan a hide? I'm really nervous about trying this, but I know my dad would be absolutely thrilled when he finds out I tanned one myself for him. He deserves a really great present. All help is appreciated very very much! :)
Return to Tanning Category Menu
when you bought the kit there should have been some insctructions just follow them it should not hurt it that you did not salt it
Freezing is not a problem. Just make sure the hides are in plastic not paper bags. Paper draws moisture away. I put my hide in two plastic garbage bags. Even if unsalted that is not a problem.
Now your problem being as you are a beginner is cleaning the deer of flesh etc. This is a delicate and timeconsuming endeavur if you have never done it before. I clean the cape with large razor blade and then use a fleshing machine. There are fleshing knives that are far cheaper but not all that easy in my opinion. Then you have to split the eyes, lips, ears... I am not going to go into detail since I am no expert just a hobbyist. But it will take more time than you think. And spending more money on items needed. It is not a simple process that follows simple steps. Might I suggest you make it a birthday present or if you have antlers make a nice antler mount. You will not have enough time in my opinion. Give yourself more time and do some research and practice on one cape. You can't rush this. You will just cut your fingers and face hours of frustrations. Whatever you decide, best of luck!