Large (Hair On) Tanning Workshop

Service Description

"Brain tanning is more than just a method—it is a craft steeped in tradition and respect for the natural world. Through hands-on experience, students will not only learn practical skills but also develop a deeper connection to the materials and the cultural significance of the process." ** Group minimum of 10 paid in advance to book, group max capacity of 20) Come spend the weekend learning the traditional method of tanning large (hair on) hides such as beaver, sheep and deer; using animal brains (lecithin) and smoking. 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.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. Upon completion you will leave feeling confident in starting your journey into tanning at home, and step by step instructions you can refer to later. *Participants are working several hides at each stage in the tanning process throughout the weekend to get the full process experience and no single hide will be completed from start to finish during the weekend. This workshop is hands on experience with hides at each step in the process only, there will not be completed hides available to take home. Please dress appropriately in layers as elements of this workshop will be messy, and partially outdoors. Minors (under 15yrs) must be accompanied by a registered adult. Each day runs from 9:30am - aprox 4pm depending on the group progress. Please bring your own lunch and wear clothing you don't mind getting messy. This workshop will be indoors on day one and some outside work on the final day as we set the tan by smoking the hides.