Quick Answer
Brain tanning involves soaking animal hides in a mixture of animal brains, water, and other ingredients to break down the collagen in the hide, followed by fleshing, stretching, and smoking to create a soft and supple buckskin.
Preparing the Hide
To begin the brain tanning process, start by selecting a suitable animal hide, typically from a deer, elk, or buffalo. Clean and scrape the hide, removing any excess flesh, blood, or dirt. Next, soak the hide in a mixture of water, 1 part animal brains to 2 parts water, and 1 tablespoon of soda ash per gallon of mixture for 24 to 48 hours. The brain mixture breaks down the collagen in the hide, making it more pliable and easier to work with.
Fleshing and Stretching the Hide
After soaking, remove the hide from the mixture and flesh it using a dull knife or fleshing tool to remove any remaining flesh or fat. Use a stretching frame or a series of wooden stakes to stretch the hide, applying even tension to prevent it from tearing. Use a bone or wooden mallet to gently pound the hide, working it into the frame to achieve the desired shape and size.
Smoking and Finishing the Buckskin
To finish the buckskin, smoke it over low heat for several hours using cedar, sage, or other traditional smoking woods. This process helps to preserve the hide, adding a natural fragrance and depth of color. Once smoked, remove the buckskin from the frame and allow it to dry slowly, either by air-drying or using a drying rack. The resulting buckskin is soft, supple, and highly prized for its beauty and durability.
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