Deer Hide Tanning Guide
Calculate tanning chemicals and quantities for deer hides with step-by-step guides
Work in progress — this calculator is still under development and may not be fully accurate. Use results as a guide only.
Input Details
Total Hide Area
1.50 m²
1 hide × 1.50 m² each
Process Duration
10 days
Alum & Salt (Recommended)
Materials Needed
| Chemical / Material | Per Hide | Total (1 hide) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminium sulphate (alum) | 500 g | 500 g | Split evenly across 2 soaks |
| Non-iodised salt | 1000 g | 1000 g | Heavy salt concentration prevents bacterial spoilage |
| Water (lukewarm) | 10.0 L | 10.0 L | Use a large vessel — deer hides need room to move freely |
Process Summary
Total Days
10
Soaks / Baths
2
Key Tip
Stir the hide twice daily during the first soak — movement ensures even penetration across the full surface.
Step-by-Step Guide — Alum & Salt (Recommended)
- 1
Flesh the hide thoroughly: remove all fat, membrane, and sinew from the skin side
- 2
Salt the flesh side generously and roll up the hide — leave 12–24 hours to draw out moisture
- 3
Shake off excess salt, then dissolve 250g alum + 500g salt in 10L lukewarm water
- 4
Submerge the hide flesh-side-in and soak for 5 days, stirring twice daily
- 5
Remove, drain, and prepare a second bath with the remaining 250g alum + 500g salt
- 6
Soak a further 5 days, stirring once daily
- 7
Remove, rinse briefly in clean water, and wring out gently
- 8
Stretch the hide on a large frame or board, fur-side-out
- 9
Work the hide vigorously while drying — stretch and flex repeatedly to keep it soft
- 10
Once dry, the hide can be softened further with a hide oil or neatsfoot oil
Hide Sale Reference
Tanned deer hides typically sell for £25–£120 depending on size, quality, and method. Vegetable-tanned and brain-tanned hides command the highest prices. Roe deer hides (smaller, finer grain) are popular for crafts; red deer hides suit rugs and wall mounts.