Select pelts for preserving which are free of numerous holes and which
have relatively clean fleece. The day the pelt is removed, wash the
fleece thoroughly with cold water. High pressure water can be used if
the fleece is extremely dirty. Remove any large pieces of connective
tissue or flesh adhering to the pelt. In a cool, dry shelter or
building, spread the pelt, wool down, on the floor and cover with an
even layer of salt. A small amount of alum can be added to the salt.
Take care to put salt on all the edges. Salted pelts may be piled on
top of one another, all pelts fleece down. Curing time should be 15 to
30 days. Check the salt covering weekly. After curing, the pelt can be
scraped to remove connective tissue or flesh. Neatsfoot oil can be
rubbed into the pelt to make it soft and flexible. The fleece can be
combed and brushed.
☆ U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1977 O-244-090
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