Tanning hides is a fascinating process that has been used for centuries to preserve animal skins for various purposes. One of the key ingredients in this process is salt, which helps to draw out moisture and preserve the hide.
But what type of salt is best for tanning hides? Can you use kosher salt, or are there other types that work better?
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of salt used in tanning hides and help you determine which one is right for your needs.
So, let’s dive in and learn more about this ancient art form!
Can You Use Kosher Salt For Tanning Hides?
Kosher salt is a type of salt that is commonly used in cooking and baking. It has a larger grain size than table salt and is often preferred by chefs for its texture and flavor. But can it be used for tanning hides?
The short answer is yes, you can use kosher salt for tanning hides. However, it may not be the best option available.
Kosher salt has a larger grain size than other types of salt, which can make it more difficult to penetrate the hide evenly. This can result in uneven tanning and may affect the overall quality of the finished product.
Additionally, kosher salt is more expensive than other types of salt that are commonly used in tanning hides, such as non-iodized table salt or tanning salt. Using kosher salt may not be cost-effective for large-scale tanning projects.
The Importance Of Salt In Tanning Hides
Salt plays a crucial role in the tanning process of hides. Before animal hides can be processed into a high-quality end product, they need to be treated with salt. A large quantity of salt is sprinkled onto the pre-cleaned animal hide. The salt absorbs moisture, which inhibits the growth of bacteria from the hide. Furthermore, salt prevents deterioration, which means the hide will remain in good condition. This process is repeated several times if necessary.
Leaving non-structural proteins in skins can result in stiffer leather of reduced softness. Salting produces whiter tanned leather. Even skins that have globular/non-structural proteins left in them can still tan, but the quality measure of softness is improved by removal of non-structural proteins. The vast majority of fluid drainage you see from salting a skin is simply water, not globular/non-structural proteins. The globular proteins are removed/washed/released from the skin during the rehydration step as a result of salting.
The function of rehydration is to fill up the fiber structure with water to return it to its original flaccid condition, ensuring that all elements of the hierarchy of structure are wetted to equilibrium. This facilitates movement of dissolved chemicals throughout the pelt section and removes dirt, salt, and some soluble proteins. Only when a skin is completely wetted and filled with water can chemicals be transported throughout the fiber structure. If this does not happen, chemical processing will be non-uniform, leaving rawness in skin, etc.
Salting causes dehydration, causing the fiber structure to collapse – even wet-salted skins are significantly dehydrated. Wet-salted skins must be rehydrated completely prior to pickling. Rehydration is the function of introducing “salt-free water to a water-free skin”. The longer hides are in a rehydration soak, the more time is available for bacterial re-activation – as water temperature increases to 60 deg F, bacterial risks increase.
What Is Kosher Salt?
Kosher salt is a type of edible salt that has a larger grain size than table salt. It is commonly used in cooking and baking, and is often preferred by chefs for its texture and flavor. The name “kosher” comes from its use in making meats kosher by removing surface blood, not from being made in accordance with the guidelines for kosher foods as ridden in the Torah.
Unlike table salt which is highly refined, kosher salt is less refined and has a more irregular shape. This makes it easier to sprinkle evenly over food, and also gives it a more distinct flavor. Kosher salt is also free from additives like iodine, which can affect the taste of food.
While kosher salt can be used for tanning hides, it may not be the best option available due to its larger grain size. However, it can be a good substitute for non-iodized table salt or tanning salt if those options are not available.
Different Types Of Salt Used In Tanning Hides
When it comes to tanning hides, there are several types of salt that can be used. The most important thing to keep in mind is that the salt used must be non-iodized, as iodine can stain the hide.
One common type of salt used in tanning hides is canning or pickling salt. This fine-grained salt is ideal for tanning hides due to its small granulation, which allows it to penetrate the hide evenly. It is also readily available and cost-effective.
Another option is tanning salt, which is specifically designed for use in tanning hides. This high-quality salt has a fine granulation and is easy to press into all parts of a raw hide, ensuring even penetration. It may be more expensive than other types of salt, but it can produce a high-quality finished product.
While kosher salt can be used for tanning hides, it may not be the best option due to its larger grain size. This can make it more difficult to penetrate the hide evenly, resulting in uneven tanning and potentially affecting the overall quality of the finished product. Additionally, kosher salt may be more expensive than other types of salt, making it less cost-effective for large-scale tanning projects.
Pros And Cons Of Using Kosher Salt For Tanning Hides
While there are some downsides to using kosher salt for tanning hides, there are also some potential benefits to consider.
Pros:
– Kosher salt is a pure form of salt that does not contain any additives, which may be important for those who are concerned about the quality of their tanning process.
– The larger grain size of kosher salt may make it easier to handle and apply evenly to the hide, especially for beginners who may struggle with finer salts.
– Some people prefer the texture and flavor of kosher salt over other types of salt, which may translate into a preference for the finished product.
Cons:
– As previously mentioned, the larger grain size of kosher salt may make it more difficult to penetrate the hide evenly, which can result in uneven tanning.
– Kosher salt is more expensive than other types of salt that are commonly used in tanning hides, which may not be cost-effective for large-scale projects.
– While kosher salt is a pure form of salt, it does not contain any additional minerals or nutrients that may be beneficial for the tanning process. This may be a drawback for those who are looking for a more holistic approach to tanning hides.
Alternatives To Kosher Salt For Tanning Hides
If you are looking for alternatives to kosher salt for tanning hides, there are several options available. One popular option is non-iodized table salt, which is readily available and less expensive than kosher salt. This type of salt has a finer grain size, which allows it to penetrate the hide more evenly and effectively.
Another option is tanning salt, which is specifically designed for use in the tanning process. Tanning salt is made from high-quality sodium chloride and is finely ground to ensure even penetration of the hide. It is also free from impurities that can affect the quality of the finished product.
If you are unable to find tanning salt or non-iodized table salt, you can also use pickling salt as a substitute. Pickling salt is a fine-grained salt that is commonly used in pickling and canning. It is free from additives and impurities, making it a suitable choice for tanning hides.
Regardless of the type of salt you choose to use, it is important to ensure that the hide is completely covered with salt during the salting process. This will help to draw out moisture from the hide and prepare it for tanning.
Tips For Using Salt In The Tanning Process
If you decide to use salt for tanning hides, there are a few tips to keep in mind for the best results:
1. Use the right type of salt: Non-iodized table salt or tanning salt are the most commonly used types of salt for tanning hides. These salts have a smaller grain size than kosher salt, which makes them easier to penetrate the hide evenly.
2. Apply salt evenly: When salting the hide, make sure to apply the salt evenly over all areas of the flesh. This will help ensure that the moisture is drawn out uniformly, which will help prevent uneven tanning.
3. Let the salt sit: After applying the salt, let it sit on the hide overnight before shaking off the excess and applying a fresh layer. This will give the salt enough time to draw out the moisture and help preserve the hide.
4. Dry in a cool area: Once the excess salt has been shaken off, dry the hide in a cool area for 2-3 days. Avoid direct sunlight or extreme heat as this can harden the natural oils and grease in the hide, making it difficult to rehydrate later on.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your tanning project is a success and that your finished product is of high quality.
