[oneoldboot]

So I had my first tanning opportunity. Learned a thing or four. My problem. . .

After drying, the head area remains stiff, so stiff that I can't turn the pelt fur out.

What do I do?!?

Thanks!

 

[Outdoorsman15767]

Did you already apply the tanning solution to it?

 

[oneoldboot]

Yes, applied the solution, following the directions on bottle.

 

[Outdoorsman15767]

I usually work the tanning solution into the head a bit and work it (bend, roll, twist)to make it easier to flip.
What are you trying to flip a fox?

 

[oneoldboot]

Racoon, several of them and have the same problem with each of them.

 

[dave3]

you have to break the fibers in the hide as it's drying to be soft if that's the problem you're having. Once they're dry, it's too late to try to make them soft. You can re-hydrate them to soften without going through the salting and pickle stages again. Wrap a damp towel on them for a few hours, they'll loosen up, and keep working the leather while it dries to break the fibers.

 

[oneoldboot]

I will give this a go this weekend. Thank you

 

[bobcat]

mist the hard area wit a spray bottle of water off and on for a while until it starts to soften enough that you can work it to break the fibers.