Quote:
Originally Posted by QUACKHEAD
Hey Swamp Critter, one of the best test is smell. Does it smell like it has started to spoil/rot. Also you said that the hair is holding which is very good. I would try to start the process soon so the curing can start. You should be ok with it. Good luck and keep us informed how it goes.
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It did start to smell, and a little hair slipped. However, re-salting stopped the smell, and the little hair slippage MAY be reversable. It's a dry pelt, it's just discolored on the inside. My last coonskin I tanned, I used alum, saltpeter, and borax. The alum, as I remember, was the chemical that tightens the skin and holds the hair firmly. I just can't remember the amounts, because it was years ago. If I could find that recipe (and I've searched online - not as easy as you'd think), with the proper amounts, I'd be ready to try this one. Still, I'm not against trying something different. I know there are kits available, and I may have to end up going that route. Still, I'd like to try some home method that's simple and with easily available materials.