Quick Answer
Wet hides can be challenging to handle, but proper techniques can minimize damage and ensure successful tanning. The key is to remove excess moisture, prevent bacterial growth, and maintain hide integrity. Effective handling techniques include skinning, fleshing, and salting or freezing.
Preparing Wet Hides for Tanning
When dealing with wet hides, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent bacterial growth and hide degradation. Remove excess flesh and blood, paying particular attention to areas with thick fat deposits. Use a fleshing knife to carefully remove as much excess flesh as possible, taking care not to damage the hide. Aim to remove 1/8 inch of flesh to prevent hide shrinkage during the tanning process.
Drying and Salting Wet Hides
Drying and salting are crucial steps in preserving wet hides. If the hide is not too wet, you can hang it to air dry, taking care to maintain even tension to prevent stretching or tearing. However, if the hide is heavily saturated, consider salting it to draw out excess moisture. Apply a layer of coarse salt (about 1-2 pounds per side) to the hide, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly. Allow the hide to sit for 24-48 hours, then rinse off the salt and begin the tanning process.
Freezing Wet Hides
Freezing is another effective method for preserving wet hides. Wrap the hide tightly in plastic or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. Proper freezing can help prevent bacterial growth and hide degradation. However, freezing can cause hide shrinkage, so it’s essential to use a good quality preservative or tan the hide as soon as possible after thawing.
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