If you’re a trapper hunter or otherwise engaged in outdoor activities that require the use of animal skins you know that tanning is a necessary process to preserve the hide and prevent it from rotting. The process of tanning deer hide is not difficult but it does require some time and effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tan deer hide.
The first step is to remove the hide from the animal. This is best done as soon as possible after the kill while the hide is still fresh. If you can’t remove the hide right away it’s important to at least get the animal carcass cooled down as quickly as possible to prevent the hide from spoiling.
Once the hide is removed it needs to be scraped to remove any excess fat and flesh. This can be done with a knife or a fleshing beam. Next the hide needs to be stretched out and allowed to dry. This can be done by nailing the hide to a board or stretching it over a frame.
Once the hide is dry it’s time to start the tanning process. There are a number of different methods that can be used but the most common is to soak the hide in a solution of salt and water. This will help to preserve the hide and prevent it from rot.
After the hide has soaked in the salt water solution for a few days it needs to be rinsed and then soaked in a solution of alum and water. This will help to further preserve the hide and give it a nice white color.
After the hide has soaked in the alum solution for a few days it’s time to rinse it again and then soak it in a solution of tannic acid and water. This is what will actually transform the hide into leather.
Soak the hide in the tannic acid solution for a week or more depending on how dark you want the leather to be. The longer it soaks the darker the leather will be.
Once the hide has reached the desired color it needs to be rinsed one last time and then hung up to dry. Once it’s dry you can treat it with oil or wax to help preserve it. And that’s it! You now have a nice piece of tanned deer hide that will last for years.
How do you remove the hair from the deer hide?
The hair can be removed by either using a sharp knife or by using a fleshing beam.
How do you scrape the hide?
The hide can be scraped using either a dull knife or a wooden scraper.
How do you stretch the hide?
The hide can be stretched by nailing it to a piece of wood and then pulling it tight.
How do you prepare the tanning solution?
The tanning solution can be made by mixing together equal parts of water and salt.
How long do you soak the hide in the tanning solution?
The hide should be soaked in the tanning solution for at least 24 hours.
How do you remove the hide from the tanning solution?
The hide can be removed from the tanning solution by simply lifting it out.
How do you dry the hide?
The hide can be dried by hanging it in a cool dry place.
How do you oil the hide?
The hide can be oiled by using a natural oil such as olive oil.
How do you smoke the hide?
The hide can be smoked by using a smoker or a campfire.
What is the purpose of smoking the hide?
The purpose of smoking the hide is to help preserve it.
How do you store the hide?
The hide can be stored by hanging it in a cool dry place.
How long will the hide last?
The hide will last for many years if it is properly cared for.
What are some uses for the hide?
The hide can be used for making clothing rugs or other items.
What if the hide is not used?
The hide can be tanned and used at a later time.
What are some tips for working with the hide?
It is important to work in a well-ventilated area and to wear gloves when working with the hide.
