Recently, the Shankle family embarked on a journey to learn the art of hide tanning from primitive tanning expert Mary Elizabeth at our homestead.
Sure, we got through Part 1 - Scrapping, Scrapping, Scrapping
But there is much more to it!
After scraping the hide on a fleshing pole, oiling and stretching the hide was the next step. This whole tanning process has truly been a team effort. Everyone taking turns scraping the hide, and then coming together to oil and stretch it. Not only does this method result in a beautifully tanned hide, but this ancient process also fosters a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among the group. We regularly found ourselves laughing, telling stories and asking questions. Mary Elizabeth taught us so much through lessons, stories and showmanship. Always staying a few steps ahead of us and keeping things moving. I imagine that is very similar to how it would have been done by primitive cultures. Experts and novices working together.
To Learn More Contact Mary Elizabeth
Do you have to scrape the hair and top skin layers off the hide to tan it?
To make buckskin, yes. Different methods require more or less scraping. Basically spending less time scraping means more time trying to "push oil" through the hide.
Are there other options for tanning solutions?
Yes! There are many usable recipes for tanning/oiling your hide. Some popular methods include Lecithan, tree bark, and animal brain
What is the stretching for?
Oiling the hide and wringing it out like a towel in multiple directions pushes the oil throughout the hide while also breaking down the fibers in multiple directions. Once the hide has been evenly oiled you must stretch, work and pull the hide in all directions until it is completely dry.
For those interested in hosting or attending classes on primitive hide tanning contact Mary Elizabeth for details.
Looking for an online approach? Click the link below for to explore the online training program through Wild Abundance.
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