Home >> Science & Nature >> Animals & Science

How to Tan a Snake Skin So It Is Still Flexible

If you have experienced the thrill of hunting and killing a snake for the enjoyment of some tasty meat, you may want to consider tanning the snake skin. Tanning, a process that preserves the skin, will provide you a resourceful way to showcase your prize. You can use a well-tanned snake to make a variety of accessories, including hats, belts and knives.

Instructions

- 1
  Using scissors, skin out the snake. Begin at the anal cavity, and slowly cut straight through, stopping right below the head. Be thorough, making sure that you remove all flesh from the skin.
- 2
  Mix equal parts of pure glycerin and rubbing alcohol in a jar or container to create a preservation solution. The container should be large enough to cover the entire snake skin with solution.
- 3
  Roll up the snake skin loosely and place it into the solution, sealing the top with a lid. Soak the skin for three days, opening the lid to stir once a day.
- 4
  Remove the snake and rinse with cold water. Gently blot the skin dry with a towel.
- 5
  Remove any excess flesh that the solution may have brought to surface. Use a knife.
- 6
  Apply a generous coat of glycerin to both sides of the snake skin. Use a paintbrush. Lay the skin out to dry for 24 hours on a piece of plywood.
- 7
  Spread a coat of leather conditioner onto both sides of the snakeskin and allow to soak into the skin for two hours. Using a soft cloth, remove the remaining conditioner from the skin. Repeat the step every two to three months to maintain the flexibility of your snake skin.

Animals & Science