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Raccoon hides: first steps in hair on tanning
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LOCATION & SCHEDULE
Meeting on: Located at:
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Bray (Marguerite) Conservation Area
14220 CR 7000 (Bridge School Road)
Rolla, MO 65401
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Additional Information: Instructed by:
Raccoons trap to cap: First steps in hair on tanning Raccoon season is here! Our ancestors utilized animal fur for making clothing, blankets, hats, and more. For this clinic, you will need to bring 1-2 raccoon hides to class to scrape and salt. If you do not obtain a raccoon hide, you are still welcome to come and observe. By the end of the clinic, you’ll have enough knowledge and fur to finish tanning your hides and to make a hat or other small item. Whether you trap or utilize calls to harvest raccoons, the hides are a valuable resource that can be used to make many items. In this hands-on clinic, you will need to bring along 1-2 raccoon hides (preferably partially frozen) to scrape and salt. At the clinic, we will review how to skin a raccoon, then you will flesh your raccoon hide(s) and salt them to take home and process further. We will provide fleshing beams and knives to use during the class, but feel free to bring along your own tools. After your raccoons are scraped and salted, you will observe and assist with the remaining steps of hide preparation and learn how to lay out a simple hat pattern to make from your hides once you finish processing them over the next few days (or whenever you have time, since hides are paused once they are well salted.) Wear old clothes and bring a rubber apron, if you have one. A heavy trash bag can be used in place of an apron. If you have a fleshing knife, bring it along. We will have fleshing knives and beams available for use during the program. You will take home plans to build a simple fleshing beam and frame. After harvesting your raccoon(s), skin and roll them flesh side to flesh side. Place each hide in a leakproof bag and freeze. Remove hides from freezer the night before the clinic, being mindful to place in a bucket to avoid leaks. Bring along a bucket or plastic tub to transport your salted hide home. If you are having challenges obtaining a raccoon hide, please still come along to learn. Registration is required for all participants. This clinic is intended for individuals 12 years and older. Participants 12-16 years of age must be accompanied by a registered adult. Dress in layers to adjust between indoor and outdoor portions. Attendees are reminded to wear old clothes (and rubber apron if you have one, or thick trash bag you can use as an apron to cover the front of your clothes), plus we recommend muck boots and a change of shoes to wear inside, since raccoon tissue many get on your feet during the fleshing portion. Please bring snacks, drinks and a camp chair. Dwight Warnke
Cancellation Policies:

You must cancel your registration before Saturday, December 13, 2025.
Age Policy:

All registrants for this event must be a minimum age of 12 years old by 12/13/2025.