Few things are as rewarding as learning how to tan deer hides in the old way. In this 3-day course, held at our outfitted basecamp near Flagstaff, you will learn the traditional method of braintanning using the wet-scrape method allowing you to walk away with a beautifully tanned hide by course’s end. Everything is covered from obtaining hides, tips on skinning, fleshing and scraping techniques, tanning solutions, and smoking the completed hide.
Along the way, we will also have a demonstration on the dry scrape method as well as how to process sinew (tendon) for use in sewing, how to make bone tools, and how to make jerky.
Deer hides, scrapers, all teaching materials, and 2 meals a day are included. Participants may bring any gear they need to be comfortable (tent, sleeping bag, etc…).
Limited to 6 participants. Runs from 9 am Friday to 4 pm Sunday.
For those interested in pursuing braintanning beyond this course, we also offer month-long apprenticeships specifically focusing on this unique skill area.
Check the course calendar for specific dates.