Quality (kwol'e te), noun.
Any of the features that make something what it is or the degree of excellence, which a thing possesses. The Webster's Dictionary definition leaves one aspect out. It depends on WHO is defining quality in a product.
Wildlife Fur Dressing defines quality as a tanned product that is most suitable to be molded by the taxidermist to please the customer hunter. What most people don't understand is that it takes these three different people to create a Quality product. If any one person of the three doesn't do the right things, the quality of the dressed hide is diminished.
Wildlife Fur Dressing, as a middle person, always strives to do the best job so everyone is pleased with his or her work. Many times this means taking the extra steps to compensate for errors made before receiving the hides. If we receive skins that have been mistreated of improperly preserved before arrival at the tannery, then it is more than likely that they will not be well received by the taxidermist or in turn by the hunter.
Here are some good procedures to insure QUALITY results for your precious skins.
- Insure that the skins are scrap free and clear of grease and fat. Clean off the meat and fat by using a scalped knife. The lips, nostril split and ears need to be turned.
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When salting your skins make certain that every part is covered generously. Make sure you leave the skin stretched without wrinkles. After a few hours, go back and regrind the salt.
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After you have salted your skins heavily, keep them in a moisture free environment away from heat and direct sunlight. Moisture and sunlight are enemies of furs.
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Fold skins into halves or thirds when storing or boxing them up to send to the Wildlife Fur Dressing. You will use less space, require less postage and fit more skins into one box. Never roll up your skins or freeze them.
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Always insulate the box with newspapers. First, place a thick layer on the bottom of the box and place a skin and then a sheet of paper etc. You may also wrap each skin individually.
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Seal the box with clear tape or reinforced box tape. For extra durability glue the box lids or staple them shut.
These preliminary steps will insure quality and final beauty in the fur dressing process.
