How to Tan a Bear Rug
The bear is a sacred animal in many primitive cultures, and for good reason. Few land mammals can compare to a bear's majesty and ferocity. It stands to reason, therefore, that to kill one is a remarkable feat and a noteworthy occasion. To preserve the thrill of the victory and perhaps even honor the spirit of the fallen beast, its skin is typically revered and displayed. The key to preserving its fine hide is a quick bit of tanning -- and not the sun-worshiping kind.
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Things You'll Need
- Alum (1 1/2 lbs.)
- Bathtub or washtub
- Broomstick
- Plywood (7 feet high by 5 feet wide)
- Saddle soap (2 bottles)
- Salt (30 lbs.)
- Utility knife
Instructions
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Using a utility knife, scrape off any attached flesh and fascia. Use small, careful strokes.
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Rinse the freshly scraped hide in a bathtub or washtub.
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Remove the hide, empty the tub, then refill with warm warter.
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Dissolve the entire amount of alum and salt in the warm water, stirring occasionally with a broomstick.
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Submerge the hide in the alum and salt solution and allow to cure for a minimum of seven days.
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Remove the hide, rinse with cool water, and gently press to wring out as much water as possible.
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Lay the pelt on an accommodating sheet of plywood to dry. Be sure to lay the fur against the plywood, exposing the flesh. Do not expose to direct sunlight and allow up to 48 hours to dry.
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Once the hide and the fur are both dry to the touch, apply quarter-sized daubs of saddle soap to a clean rag and rub through the fur and and flesh.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image from Wikimedia Commons.
