How to Collect Brain for Tanning Safely?

Obtaining and Preparing the Brain

To collect brain for tanning, start by killing and skinning the animal, then carefully remove the brain from the skull using a sharp knife or scalpel. This should be done immediately after skinning to minimize the risk of contamination. The brain should be stored in a sterile container filled with a 50/50 mixture of water and formaldehyde for no more than 48 hours to preserve it for use in the tanning process.

Preparing the Brain for Use

When preparing the brain for use, it’s essential to rinse it gently with cold water to remove any excess formaldehyde. The brain should then be chopped into small pieces using a sharp knife and pureed in a blender or food processor until it reaches a uniform consistency. This can be a time-consuming process, but it ensures that the brain is evenly distributed and can be applied effectively to the hide.

Applying the Brain to the Hide

To apply the brain to the hide, start by fleshing the hide to remove excess flesh and fat, then stretch it to its desired shape. The brain paste should be applied evenly to the hide, working from the center outwards to ensure complete coverage. The hide should then be allowed to dry and cure under tension before being smoked or further processed for use. It’s essential to note that the amount of brain used should be around 1-2 pounds per hide, depending on its size and type.