Casting Snakeskin

[hornet406]

I have wanted to try this for some time. I have read in this forum about problems with heat or tanning chemicals causing the blanks to not be usable. I was looking on EBAY to purchase a skin and try it out. However, some listed are just dried and some are tanned. Is there a big difference and which is the preferred method? Also, is there a good reputable supplier of skins anyone can recommend.

Thanks for any help.

 

[its_virgil]

Dried skins will be stiff like parchment paper. Tanned skins will be soft and supple. And, yes, some tanning chemicals will react with the polyester resin. i would not recommend using alumilite for snake skin casting.

I just purchased 750 inches from Steve Thompson. I've been using his prairie rattlesnake skins for well over 10 years. In fact, I only purchase from him. His skins are excellent. Contact him via email: rattler51[AT]pie[DOT]midco[DOT]net Replace [AT] with @ and [DOT] with .
Do a good turn daily!
Don

I have wanted to try this for some time. I have read in this forum about problems with heat or tanning chemicals causing the blanks to not be usable. I was looking on EBAY to purchase a skin and try it out. However, some listed are just dried and some are tanned. Is there a big difference and which is the preferred method? Also, is there a good reputable supplier of skins anyone can recommend.

Thanks for any help.