Washing buckskin?

[wilderness medic]

Not sure if it smells this way because I took so long to finish, or if it just smells that bad because it's a brain soaked and smoked animal skin. Either way it's not too suitable for the house. Came home to my room mate with a bunch of candles lit around it so I moved it into my room. It's been a while and the smell isn't going away.

How do I know it's sufficiently smoked and "locked in"? I don't want to wash it and ruin it. I'd imagine with all the humidity here if it wasn't tanned good enough from the smoke it would already be stiff, but I thought i'd ask first.

Provided it is smoked good enough, what's the best way to wash it? Just soak it in water and agitate it a few times?

It would almost smell ok in a cabin or garage, but it is too overpowering for a house.

[wilderness medic]

bump.......

[crashdive123]

I don't know the answer, but you may want to send a PM to YCC in case he doesn't see this thread. He doesn't get to the forum as much any more with setting up his new place.

[hunter63]

So, No answer yet.....?
For what it's worth....my buckskins.....fully tanned are washed in plain water, with dirty knees, and any other spots scrubbed with clean sand.....Then worn dry.

Have seen hides soaked scrubbed like this...the "worked" over a rope loop, or stake till dry.....makes softer skins.
Would this work for you application?....Don't know.

YCC is the expert.....

[wilderness medic]

Thanks guys. I'll give that a try. Maybe use just enough water at first so if it messed up I just have to restretch.