kathadin/icelandic sheepskin naturally tanned
Photo: Karis Joy Photography, Brookville, Indiana.
Preserving and tanning hides has been a process used by our ancestors for thousands of years. Hides of wild and domesticated animals tanned and kept babies warm in their cribs, were blankets on beds, and garments worn every day to protect them from the elements. What has been lost over time is the natural way to tan them. To preserve them in such a way that made them usable and durable. With the invention of chemical tanning, many of the oral history of how to tan hides has been set aside and replaced for the chemicals.
When I began my journey into hide tanning, it was difficult to find a tried and true, somewhat consistent method laid out step by step. I had to research, experiment, and try and try again to find my own way into this craft. As I shared online my journey, others wanted to learn as well, and this is how I became (unintentionally) a teacher of this craft. I am always a student, and always learning. There are many other folks that have been tanning longer than I have. I am here to simply share one way of preserving hides, and I encourage everyone to keep learning, ask questions, and experiment on your own.
The process of tanning sheepskins is nothing short of magical. Knowing I am honoring an animal in such a beautiful way is a privilege as a farmer and shepherdess. When the meat is long consumed, and the bones are returned to the earth, the sheepskin will remain for many years to come.
Uses for sheepskins: Wool is incredible. Let’s start there. It promotes circulation, which is why it works great for chair pads, wheelchair seats, car cushions, and even pet beds. I have one that goes with me in my truck as a seat cushion. I can grab and put on a tractor seat, my ATV, skid steer etc. At home, I sit on them on the couch. They add warmth and depth to a room as decor. They can be a mattress, crib, or camping pad. They are hypoallergenic, and are not flammable. Wool is springy and will not break down like typical cushions will. I could go on and on, but I will stop here. Each sheepskin will be posted for sale with suggestions on use, but the choice and options are endless and for you to choose.
THE METHODS I TEACH IN MY BOOK, ONLINE CLASS AND WORKSHOP CAN BE USED FOR OTHER SPECIES, SUCH AS DEER, GOAT, RABBIT, ETC.
SHEEPSKIN TANNING GUIDE/E-BOOK: If you want to get started on tanning sheepskins (or other species), I wrote and designed a PDF downloadable guide with the step by step process! It includes photos, the tools I use, and troubleshooting common issues.
WORKSHOPS: We host weekend long sheepskin tanning courses on our farm! Every fall we offer workshops on our farm where you can get hands on experience on how to tan a hide, and future mentorship from me.
