The article from the previous post also says they do not pickle the hide. Oh this is gonna be good...
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First of all, I think you are confusing yourself by comparing fur and hair on tanning with leather tanning! DONT DO IT - they are very different!
Leather tanners have absolutely no concern for the epidermis and hair or fur! In fact its removed to expose the underlying flesh thats known as the Grain side of the skin. This is what concerns them most!
Likewise - leather can be tanned with or without a pickle depending on the technique. It also is usually neutralized for hours or overnight - which would wipe out the epidermis of a fur or hair skin.
And it is never tumbled in sawdust like fur or hair skins - otherwise it would ruin the leather's finish.
Stick to fur and hair on tanning! Stay away from leather tanning - some of the principles apply but you are dealing with a different material!