Deer hide tanning question!

ladyrua · #1 01/03/07, 01:41 PM

My darling DH sweet-talked a local orchard owner into letting him bow hunt on his land....and then he *really* took me seriously when I said I'd like to tan all the hides. Now I'm sort of stuck. I really want to brain-tan the next couple that he brings in, but I've got two in turpentine/wood alcohol mixture (one of many methods I understand). But I can't find "neats foot oil" in any hardware store and I've got to move to that stage soon!! (like tomorrow!).

So here's my question - is there any other kind of oil or treatment I can use on those hides at this point? I did them hair-on, and they're looking really nice so far! Or, if I really do have to use the neats stuff, can I preserve them at this stage till I can locate it?

Sorry to sound like a dummy, I'm an eager learner and I don't want these hides to go to waste!!

Thanks so much!

big rockpile · #2 01/03/07, 01:53 PM

Its Neatsfoot/Harness Oil.I get it at our Farm Supply.

big rockpile

Stephen in SOKY · #3 01/03/07, 04:30 PM

TSC has it if there's one close. If not, yellow pages for work boots or saddle shops.

#4 01/03/07, 08:14 PM

You could also check with a taxidermy supply company. They carry it also.

huntress4203 · #5 01/05/07, 02:41 PM

[QUOTE=ladyrua] I can't find "neats foot oil" in any hardware store and I've got to move to that stage soon!! (like tomorrow!).

Try going to a Tandys(online or in person) or weaver leather. I used to work at a harness shop and we always had the stuff. I know Tandys carries it.

I'm an eager learner and I don't want these hides to go to waste!!

I'm interested in taxidermy also. I have a beaver, coon and deer hide just dried waiting to figure out what to do with them and an entire coyote in the downstairs freezer. I'm interested in the method you're using?

Glo