Buckskin Leather

Deer, elk, bison and moose hides are all different, and each is best suited for different uses. As individuals, each animal is unique, and so also are their hides. Each hide has its own history and characteristics. Some are thicker and some are thinner, of a different size and weight, depending on where and how they lived, what kind of predators may have got at them, age, season, and gender. Some finished hides have more scars and blemishes than others, some have an irregular shape due to trimming around holes or poor skinning technique. It is best to contact me personally for each order so I can determine the best hides for your specific needs. I also custom tan hides for hunters who would like their own hides finished into leather.

The Tanning Process

Hanging buckskinIn the tanning process I use, the active ingredients are brains, hydrated lime or hardwood ash, leg bone oil, pure soap, pine and cedar smoke, time, water and work. The result is very soft leather which is strong and durable. Smoked hides have a range of beautiful colours from light gold to dark brown, and a smoky aroma that lasts for years. Some hides with the fewest blemishes and stains are kept naturally ivory white. Cut lacing is available upon request.

Prices

(all prices in USD, contact me for CDN $ orders)

Deer Hides / s.f. Elk Hides / s.f.
Natural White Smoked Natural Smoked
$16. -$20. $17.-$20 $19.- $25. $20. -$25. 

 

Deer hides are generally 8-11 square feet, with some smaller or partial hides. Elk are around 15-25 square feet with some larger and some smaller. Moose hides are subject to availability, and are priced at $25.00/sq.ft. All prices are in U.S.Dollars, less for wholesale orders, B-grade hides, scraps and remnants. For Canadian prices and orders, please contact me for details.