James Churchill

Complete Book of Tanning Skins and Furs

Tanning is the science and art of turning perishable animal skins into leather and furs. This age-old process can yield a luxurious fur garment or an indispensable leather item, and no artificial product to this day can replace or duplicate the properties of a tanned hide.A hide is the outer tissue of an animal body made up on once-living cells and their products. Tanning a skin involves removing the tissues which cannot be converted into leather and the treatment of the other tissues so they won't rot and will stay flexible and strong. Advice on transforming skins into unique wall decorations is also included, as are the how-to's of making gloves, boots, moccasins, jackets and more. Interesting background information adds to this comprehensive portrait of tanning. Facts on animal skins — what they are made of and why they can be preserved — precedes specific instructional sections, and a chapter on pioneer tanning methods thoroughly examines the roots of this art in Indian life. In these pages, Churchill gives you the means to make the most of each 'catch', using tanning skills that can equal those of professionals. Tanning also makes a satisfying craft for beginners or accomplished tanners who would like to try working with different types of animal skins or creating new products. This is a complete guide of simple instructions you can refer to again and again in preserving animal skins for years of future use and enjoyment.