Casting Snake Skin Question

[robertkulp]

What kind of prep is needed to snake skin to cast it in PR? Is just clean and dry sufficient, or does it need to be tanned. If being tanned isn't needed, does it cause problems if it is already tanned?

Thanks

 

[Akula]

I've always tanned them. I would think without the process, it would be too full of moisture

 

[JohnU]

I've done both. Usually the tanned skins have better color. Either way, I clean them in a degreaser to get rid of oils and things left on the skins, and rinse very well in water and let dry for a couple days. Just prepare yourself for the dreaded silver skin. Sometimes you lose a few for unknown reasons, even when your process is the same on all casts, so don't use your best skins first. Learn your process on lesser skins. There are lots of conversations here if you search snakeskin casting, with lots of good info. Good luck!

 

[robertkulp]

Thanks for the tips. I've tried to do my homework - searching IAP and the web, but couldn't find anything regarding tanned or not.

 

[its_virgil]

The tanning process is important. I have cast skins I did not tan or i did not know the tanning chemicals and as soon as the polyresin hjt the skin then all went black.

Thanks for the tips. I've tried to do my home

I always scrap off the scale covers so no air can be trapped under them. Cleaning the skins is important as John mentioned.

Do a good turn daily!
Don

 

[its_virgil]

John,
We need to figure out a way to market those beautiful silver skin blanks. :biggrin:
Do a good turn daily!
Don

Just prepare yourself for the dreaded silver skin. Sometimes you lose a few for unknown reasons, even when your process is the same on all casts, so don't use your best skins first.