How to Skin a Fox for Tanning
Harvesting the hide of a fox is a delicate process that if done properly can result in a beautiful finished product. In order to ensure a successful tan it is important to follow these steps closely.
First the fox must be properly harvested. This means that it must be killed in a quick and humane manner and then bled out immediately. Once the fox is bled out it should be hung upside down so that the hide can be removed.
Next the hide must be properly removed from the fox. This process is called “flaying” and it is important to avoid damaging the hide. First make a cut along the back of the neck and then insert your fingers underneath the hide. Gently pull the hide away from the body working your way down the legs and tail. Once the hide is completely removed it should be turned inside out and then soaked in warm water.
After the hide has been soaked it is time to begin the tanning process. There are a variety of ways to tan a hide but the most common method is to use alum. Alum is a salt that will help to preserve the hide and prevent it from rotting.
To begin mix one part alum with two parts water. Then soak the hide in the solution for 24 hours. After 24 hours remove the hide from the solution and rinse it off with clean water.
Once the hide is rinsed it can be hung up to dry. Once it is dry it is ready to be used for a variety of applications including clothing rugs and even wall-hangings.
1.
How do you skin a fox for tanning?
Answer: You need a sharp knife singe the hair off over a fire make a slit down the middle of the belly and then peel the skin off.
Be careful not to cut into the hide.
2.
What is the best way to remove the hair from the hide?
Answer: Singeing the hair off over a fire is the best way.
3.
How do you make a slit down the middle of the belly?
Answer: With a sharp knife make a cut from the base of the tail to the chin.
4.
How do you peel the skin off?
Answer: Starting at the slit you made down the belly carefully peel the skin away from the meat.
Work slowly so you don’t tear the hide.
5.
How do you avoid cutting into the hide?
Answer: Use a sharp knife and be careful not to apply too much pressure.
6.
What is the best way to store the hide?
Answer: You can store it in a cool dry place.
7.
How long will the hide last?
Answer: If it is stored properly the hide can last for years.
8.
What can you do with the hide?
Answer: The hide can be used for various things such as clothing rugs and other items.
9.
What are some other uses for the hide?
Answer: The hide can also be used for tanning.
10.
What is the best way to preserve the hide?
Answer: The best way to preserve the hide is to salt it.
11.
How do you salt the hide?
Answer: You can salt the hide by rubbing salt into it.
12.
How long does it take for the hide to dry?
Answer: It can take a few weeks for the hide to fully dry.
13.
What are some other uses for the hide?
Answer: The hide can be used for various things such as clothing rugs and other items.
14.
What are some other uses for the hide?
Answer: The hide can also be used for tanning.
15.
What are some other uses for the hide?
Answer: The hide can also be used for taxidermy.
