Step into one of the oldest traditional crafts in North America and learn the complete process of creating authentic braintanned buckskin from raw animal hides. In this immersive four-part course, instructor Nolan Morningstar will guide students through every stage of the transformation process using time-honored techniques and hands-on instruction.
Over the course of four workshop sessions, students will flesh, grain, membrane, brain, soften, and smoke their hides while learning the science, history, and practical skills behind traditional hide tanning. Each class builds on the previous session, allowing participants to experience the full progression from raw hide to finished buckskin.
The workshop will take place September 5, 12, 26 & 27 from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Due to the traditional tanning process, time between several classes is required to properly prepare the hides for the next stage.
This is a highly tactile and physically active class where students should expect to work outdoors at times, get dirty, and engage in moderate to strenuous physical activity. Individual guidance will be provided throughout the process, and students will receive handouts to support continued learning beyond the workshop.
Participants may work individually on their own hide or partner with another student to share a hide and alternate tasks. Students under 16 should attend with an adult partner.
What’s included
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All hide tanning materials and instructional handouts.
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Use of instructor-provided tanning tools and equipment during class.
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Hands-on instruction throughout all four workshop sessions.
What’s not included
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Transportation to and from class.
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Non-alcoholic beverages
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snacks
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Clothing suitable for messy outdoor work.
Itinerary
This is a physically demanding workshop that involves scraping, wringing, stretching, and outdoor work.
Students should wear clothes and footwear that can get dirty or stained.
Some workshop sessions must be spaced apart to allow proper hide processing between stages.
final smoking will be completed by the instructor after class for later pickup.
Highlights
Learn the complete traditional braintanning process from raw hide to finished buckskin.
Gain hands-on experience with fleshing, graining, membraning, braining, softening, and smoking techniques.
Work directly with traditional tools and materials under guided instruction.
Explore one of the oldest and most respected hide-working traditions in a deeply immersive format.
Leave with foundational knowledge of traditional buckskin making and a finished or near-finished hide depending on drying and smoking conditions.
