Traditional Tanning Small Furs Weekend

Come spend the weekend learning the traditional method of tanning your own small animal pelts using brains (lecithin) and smoking. Bring any prepared small animal (Coyote and smaller) skinned, fleshed and dried.

This hands on weekend workshop will guide you through each step in tanning a variety of small animals the way many of our ancestors did without the use of chemicals.

WHAT IS TRADITIONAL BRAIN / SMOKE TANNING?Traditional tanning is when animal hides are preserved using a lecithin and smoke, leaving a durable and soft leather material that is water resistant and washable. They are preserved in a non toxic way using natural materials and elements.Bring your own prepped small animal fur and learn how to tan it traditionally without chemicals in this personalized weekend workshop.

All participant furs must be properly prepped and approved prior to the workshop. Full instructions will be provided and can be found https://www.furharvesters.com/pelthandling.html

The following will be accepted types of furs:

Coyote

Lynx

Fox

Fisher

Skunk

Raccoon

Martin

Mink

Muskrat

Rabbit

Weasel

Squirrel

*others can be accepted if they are in a similar size range. Please note that aquatic animals may not be accepted in this class, such as beaver as they require some additional techniques that require their own specific class.

Traditionally tanned hides are completely washable, non toxic, and essentially a carbon neutral product that you can enjoy for decades. Smoking finished hides will set the tan on the final day and discussion on care and cleaning, along with tips on sewing and crafting with tanned furs will round out this the weekend.

Minors under the age of 15yrs must be accompanied by a registered adult. Space will be limited to 20 participants total. Refunds will not be issued if your fur or hide is not suitable for tanning and has not been prepped as outlined, however tannery prepped hides will be available to purchase to proceed with the weekend instruction. Please get in touch if you need clarification or more information.