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The Brain Tanning Process




Brain tanning is an ancient tanning process that produces a very soft, durable leather. It is mainly a physical process, using natural oils and wood smoke. This is in contrast to commercial tanneries, which rely heavily on chemicals to help with the softening.


The main ingredient in my tanning process is animal brains, although bone marrow oil is used to help penetration in the thicker hides. This can be a long arduous process, but the end result is a soft lofty leather that is breathable and long lasting. The final step of smoking the hide coats and preserves the fibers, enabling the hide to stay soft after wetting.



A frame stretching a moose hide



Thinning a buffalo for a robe



Smoking a moose hide



Softening a buffalo robe



Erik eikaas





phone: 952-401-9580


eeikaas@yahoo.com