How To Tan A Rattlesnake Skin

How to Tan a Rattlesnake Skin: A Complete Guide

Tanning a rattlesnake skin is a rewarding process that preserves a piece of nature's artistry. This detailed guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you achieve a beautiful, supple hide perfect for crafting or display. Remember, always prioritize safety when handling any animal parts. Never handle a live rattlesnake. Use only already deceased snakes obtained legally.

Preparation is Key: Getting Started

Before you begin the tanning process, ensure you have the following:

Essential Supplies:

• Rattlesnake skin: Make sure the skin is fresh and undamaged as much as possible. The fresher, the better.
• Sharp knife or scalpel: For precise flesh removal.
• Fleshing beam: A sturdy, curved beam is ideal for scraping the flesh away.
• Non-iodized salt: Abundant amounts are crucial for preservation.
• Borax: A natural preservative that aids in the tanning process.
• Tanning solution: You can purchase a commercial tanning solution or opt for a traditional brain tanning method (discussed below).
• Large container: For soaking the skin.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from potential irritants.
• Clean work area: Maintaining cleanliness is vital throughout the process.

Step 1: Skinning the Rattlesnake

This requires careful attention to detail. Begin by making an incision along the belly of the snake, from the vent to the head. Carefully separate the skin from the underlying flesh using your knife, avoiding cuts. Be gentle, especially around the head and tail.

Step 2: Fleshing the Skin

This critical step removes all traces of flesh and fat. Secure the skin to your fleshing beam and use your knife to meticulously scrape away any remaining tissue. The goal is to leave a clean, membrane-like hide. Thoroughness is vital; any remaining flesh will attract insects and hinder the tanning process.

Step 3: Salting and Preserving

Liberally cover both sides of the fleshed skin with non-iodized salt. This draws out moisture and prevents decomposition. Let it cure for at least 3-5 days, or longer, depending on the size and thickness of the skin. The salt will absorb moisture, creating a somewhat stiff texture.

Step 4: Washing and De-salting

After the curing period, rinse the skin thoroughly with cool water to remove the salt. You should notice a significant decrease in stiffness.

Tanning Your Rattlesnake Hide: Methods and Techniques

Several methods exist for tanning. Here are two popular approaches:

Commercial Tanning Solution:

Follow the instructions provided with your chosen commercial tanning solution meticulously. These solutions often involve soaking the skin in the solution for a specified duration.

Traditional Brain Tanning (more challenging):

This method uses the brain of the snake (or another animal's brain) as a natural tanning agent. This is a complex and time-consuming method requiring specific knowledge and experience; thus, it is less recommended for beginners.

Finishing Touches: Softening and Storage

After the tanning process, thoroughly rinse the skin again and apply a leather conditioner to soften the hide. Store the tanned rattlesnake skin in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its quality and prevent damage.

Ethical Considerations:

Remember that responsible and ethical practices are paramount. Always ensure you are legally permitted to obtain rattlesnake skins and respect wildlife conservation regulations.

This detailed guide provides a foundation for tanning a rattlesnake skin. Further research and practice will refine your techniques. Enjoy the process!