Tips for cleaning a deer cape before preservation?

Preparing the Cape for Preservation

When caping a deer, it’s essential to make precise cuts to remove the hide while preserving the most valuable part – the skin around the shoulders. A good rule of thumb is to make a 3-4 inch wide cut along both sides of the spine, starting at the base of the neck and working your way down to the shoulders. This will give you a clean, intact piece of skin that can be preserved and mounted.

Cleaning the Cape

To clean the cape, start by gently removing any dirt or debris with a soft-bristled brush. Avoid using high-pressure hoses or strong detergents, as these can damage the skin. Instead, mix a mild soap solution of 1 tablespoon of soap to 1 gallon of cold water and use a clean cloth to gently scrub the cape. Rinse the soap off with cold water and use a clean towel to blot excess moisture. Avoid soaking the cape, as this can cause it to become brittle and prone to cracking.

Drying and Preserving the Cape

Once the cape is clean, allow it to air-dry or use a fan to speed up the process. If you’re not using the cape immediately, you can store it in a sealed plastic bag or container in the freezer to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to preserve the cape, use a salt-based preservative to prevent bacterial growth and decay. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct ratio of salt to water and apply the solution evenly to both sides of the cape. Allow the cape to sit for several days to allow the preservative to penetrate the skin, then rinse it off with cold water and allow it to air-dry before submitting it to a taxidermist for mounting.