Master the Art of Tanning Deer Hides: A Beginner’s Guide

Introduction

Understanding the practice of tanning a deer hide is essential for those interested in utilizing the entire deer for survival skills, crafts, or sustainable living. Tanning preserves the skin, allowing it to be used for clothing, tools, or other artisan projects. This guide will cover the necessary steps for beginners to successfully tan a deer hide, from preparation to final treatment.

Materials Needed

Basic Supplies

Fresh deer hide
Sharp knife or fleshing knife
Salt (non-iodized)
Tanning solution (commercial or homemade)
Bucket or large container
Water
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber gloves
Hacksaw (if needed for preparation)
Wooden frame or toggles for drying

Optional Supplies

Brain matter (for brain tanning method)
Wood ash (for some tanning methods)
Tanning oil
Work gloves
Hair dryer or heat gun

Preparation of the Deer Hide

Skinning the Deer

What you do immediately after harvesting the deer is critical. Proper skinning ensures easier tanning later on.

Make precise cuts along the legs and around the neck to avoid puncturing the hide.
Remove the hide carefully, holding it taut to minimize tearing.

Salting the Hide

Purpose of Salting

Salting helps to draw moisture out of the hide, preventing spoilage and preparing it for tanning.

Cover both sides of the hide with a generous layer of salt.
Fold the hide flesh side in and place it in a cool area.
Let it cure for 24 to 48 hours, then shake off the excess salt.

Fleshing the Hide

Removing Fat and Flesh

Using a sharp knife or fleshing knife, carefully scrape off any residual fat or flesh.
Work from the center toward the edges to avoid cutting through the hide.

Tanning Processes

Commercial Tanning Solution

Mix the tanning solution according to the package instructions.
Soak the hide in the solution for the recommended time.
Rinse thoroughly in clean water afterward.

Brain Tanning Method

Collect the brain from the deer and blend it until it’s smooth.
Mix the brain with water to create a slurry.
Massage the brain mixture into the flesh side of the hide and let it sit for several hours.
Rinse and flush with water.

Wood Ash Tanning

Soak the hide in a solution of wood ash and water for several days.
Rinse the hide thoroughly to remove all ash residue.
Neutralize the hide with a vinegar solution before drying.

Drying the Hide

Stretching the Hide

Once tanned, the hide must be stretched to avoid curling or hardening.
Attach the hide to a wooden frame or toggle it between two posts.

Cooling and Drying

Let the hide dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Avoid direct sunlight which can cause cracking or fading.

Final Treatment and Softening

Oiling the Hide

Once the hide is dry, apply tanning oil to soften it.
Work the oil into the hide by hand or with a cloth.

Softening Techniques

To enhance softness, repeatedly stretch and fold the hide while damp.
Utilize a softening tool, such as a dull knife or a specialized hide scraper.

Storage and Maintenance

Storing Tanned Hides

Store tanned hides in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Consider rolling the hide rather than folding it to avoid creasing.

Maintenance Tips

Regularly check for moisture and potential mold growth.
Apply additional oil as needed to maintain softness.

Conclusion

Tanning a deer hide allows you to utilize every part of the animal. With practice, anyone can learn to tan hides effectively. It’s important to follow the steps carefully and always practice ethical hunting and respect for the animals.

Step	Materials Needed	Time Required
Skinning	Knife	30 Minutes
Salting	Salt	24-48 Hours
Fleshing	Fleshing Knife	1-2 Hours
Tanning	Tanning Solution or Brain	Varies (1-8 Hours)
Drying	Frame or Toggles	Several Hours to Days

Tanning Method	Advantages	Disadvantages
Commercial Solution	Quick Results	Cost of materials
Brain Tanning	Natural and effective	Requires brain extraction
Wood Ash Tanning	Uses natural materials	Lengthy process