Preserving a squirrel hide can be a rewarding experience, whether you're a hunter, trapper, or simply found a deceased squirrel and want to remember it. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process to ensure your squirrel hide is properly preserved, maintaining its natural beauty and lasting for years to come. We'll cover everything from initial preparation to the final stages of tanning and storage.
Preparing the Squirrel Hide for Preservation
The initial steps are crucial for preventing spoilage and ensuring a high-quality final product. Proper preparation minimizes the risk of bacterial growth and ensures the hide retains its flexibility and softness.
1. Skinning the Squirrel:
Carefully skin the squirrel as soon as possible after its death. Use a sharp knife and work slowly to avoid damaging the hide. Begin at the tail and carefully work your way down the body, separating the skin from the flesh. Take care to remove all muscle tissue and fat. This is the most critical step in preventing decay and attracting insects.
2. Fleshing the Hide:
Once skinned, thoroughly flesh the hide. This means removing all remaining bits of fat, muscle, and membrane. A fleshing beam or a dull knife are helpful tools for this process. Thorough fleshing is essential for preventing rotting and ensuring even tanning. A clean hide is a key to success.
3. Cleaning the Hide:
Wash the hide thoroughly with cool water. You can use a mild detergent if needed, but avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the hide. Rinse completely and ensure all soap residue is removed. A clean hide will tan more effectively.
Tanning the Squirrel Hide: Methods and Techniques
Several methods exist for tanning a squirrel hide, ranging from simple brain tanning to more advanced techniques using commercial tanning solutions. We'll focus on two accessible methods:
1. Brain Tanning (Traditional Method):
This traditional method uses the squirrel's brain (or commercially available brain tanning solution) as a natural tanning agent.
- Preparing the Brain: Carefully remove the brain from the skull and mix it with a small amount of water to create a creamy paste.
- Applying the Brain Tanning Mixture: Apply the brain mixture evenly across the hide, working it into the skin. Ensure the entire surface is covered.
- Aging Process: Allow the hide to age for several days, keeping it moist and protected from insects. Regularly check and re-apply the mixture if necessary. The aging process softens the hide and allows the brain enzymes to work effectively.
- Washing and Softening: After the aging process, thoroughly wash the hide with clean water to remove any remaining brain matter. Work the hide to soften it.
2. Using a Commercial Tanning Kit:
Commercial kits offer a convenient alternative to brain tanning. These kits usually contain specific chemicals designed for tanning hides. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions precisely to avoid damaging the hide. These kits streamline the process and often deliver consistent results.
Finishing and Storage:
Regardless of the tanning method used, the final steps are crucial for preserving the hide's quality.
- Drying the Hide: After tanning, carefully dry the hide. Stretch it over a form or board to maintain its shape and prevent shrinkage. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading and damage. Slow, even drying is essential.
- Softening and Conditioning: Once dry, carefully soften and condition the hide. You can use specialized leather conditioners or natural oils such as neatsfoot oil to keep it supple and prevent cracking.
- Storage: Store the tanned hide in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Proper storage protects the hide from damage and ensures its longevity.
Tips for Success:
- Work quickly: The sooner you begin the preservation process, the better the results will be.
- Use sharp tools: Sharp knives and other tools minimize damage to the hide.
- Be patient: Tanning takes time. Follow the steps carefully and allow sufficient time for each stage of the process.
- Research thoroughly: If you opt for brain tanning, research the process in detail to ensure you understand the steps involved. Safety first.
Preserving a squirrel hide requires patience and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and lasting memento. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow instructions carefully. Enjoy your accomplishment!
