Tanning a squirrel hide might seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach and patience, you can preserve this small but valuable piece of nature. This guide provides a step-by-step process for successfully tanning a squirrel hide, suitable for beginners and experienced taxidermists alike. We’ll cover everything from initial preparation to the final stages of softening and finishing.
Preparing the Squirrel Hide
Before you begin the tanning process, proper preparation is crucial. This step significantly impacts the final result, determining the hide's softness and longevity.
1. Fleshing the Hide:
This involves carefully removing all remaining flesh, fat, and tissue from the hide. Use a fleshing knife or a dull scraping tool to avoid damaging the hide itself. Thorough fleshing prevents putrefaction and ensures a clean, even tan. Be meticulous; even small remnants of tissue can lead to problems later.
2. Cleaning the Hide:
After fleshing, thoroughly rinse the hide under cool running water to remove any lingering debris. A gentle scrubbing with a soft brush can help ensure complete cleanliness.
3. Salting the Hide:
Salting is a critical step for preserving the hide and preventing bacterial growth. Liberally cover the flesh side of the hide with non-iodized salt. The salt draws out moisture and helps preserve the hide's structure. Leave it salted for at least 24 hours, potentially longer depending on the size and thickness of the hide and the ambient temperature. You may need to add more salt if the hide isn't fully saturated.
Tanning the Squirrel Hide: A Step-by-Step Process
Several tanning methods exist, but for beginners, a simple brain tanning method offers a good balance of effectiveness and accessibility.
1. Brain Tanning:
This traditional method uses the squirrel's own brain (or commercially available brain tanning solution) as a natural tanning agent. Carefully remove the brain from the skull, ensuring it's as clean as possible. Mash the brain thoroughly, mixing it with a small amount of water to create a creamy paste.
2. Applying the Brain Mixture:
Work the brain mixture evenly into the hide's flesh side, ensuring complete coverage. Let the hide sit for several hours or overnight, allowing the enzymes in the brain to break down the hide's proteins and begin the tanning process.
3. Washing and Softening:
After the brain tanning mixture has been absorbed, thoroughly rinse the hide under cool water until all traces of brain matter are gone. This stage is crucial; residual brain matter can cause a foul odor and attract insects.
4. Softening and Stretching:
To ensure the hide remains soft and supple, work it frequently – stretching, pulling, and kneading it to break down the collagen fibers. This process can be repeated over several days. You may consider using a softening agent such as oil or a commercial softening compound after the initial wash.
5. Drying the Hide:
Once thoroughly soft, stretch the hide onto a flat surface to dry. Avoid direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause the hide to become brittle. Allow the hide to air dry completely, potentially taking several days depending on humidity and temperature.
Finishing Touches
Once completely dry, the hide should be supple and relatively odorless. You may want to lightly oil the hide to add additional softness and to help retain its moisture.
Important Considerations:
- Safety: Always prioritize safety. Wear gloves when handling the hide and use sharp tools with caution.
- Odor: Proper fleshing and rinsing are key to minimizing unpleasant odors.
- Patience: Tanning takes time. Don't rush the process.
- Experimentation: Different hides may require slight adjustments to the process.
This comprehensive guide will enable you to successfully tan a squirrel hide. Remember, practice makes perfect; don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. With experience, you'll develop a keen understanding of the process and achieve excellent results. Remember to always respect wildlife and adhere to any relevant hunting regulations in your area.
