How to Cure Cow Hides
Cow hide has many different applications in society. It can be used to cover chairs, and make blankets or decorations. Native Americans found many different uses for tanned hides including wearing them as symbols of power. Not many people cure hides today ; however, it was necessary for survival in former years. Before using cow hides for any kind of project, it must be cured and then tanned. The curing process is quite simple but requires time.
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Instructions
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Cut away any flesh from the hide. If the hide is still attached to the animal, slice the hide down its belly and gently pull away from the carcass. Use the knife to leave as much flesh as possible on the animal.
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Spread the hide out on a flat surface, fur side down.
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Salt the hide generously. The general rule is one pound of salt for one pound of hide. Be sure to salt all all areas of the hide including the edges. Any area missed will be unprotected.
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4
Salt hide again in 3 to 4 days until the hide is dry. If the hide is not dry after salting a second time, hang it up until it is completely dry. Once dry, it is ready for tanning.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a large flat space under some sort of roof to keep moisture off of the hide.
Exercise caution when using the knife to avoid injury.
Do not get salt on vegetation. It will kill vegetation and render the area useless for planting for several years.
