Hide Shack Workshop training

5-Day Traditional Brain Tanning Workshop

Learn to Tan Hides in 5 Days or Less

Date: Flexible — scheduled when you’re ready
Location: 1720 Falcon Circle South, Pocatello, ID 83204
Phone: 208-244-8583

Trainers: Dude Perry & Buddy Perry
Length of Training: 5 days (pace depends on the student)
Cost: $1,000 per person
Class Size: Limited to 5 students per session

What You’re Expected to Bring

• Clothes that can get dirty

• A willingness to learn and listen

• Ability to lift at least 30 pounds and a strong stomach

• Pencil and paper for notes, or a camera to document the process

Lunch and dinner are provided daily.

Room and board are your responsibility.
Suggested lodging:

• Motel 6 — 208-237-7879

• Travelodge — 208-237-0020
  (Or call for other local options.)

What You Will Learn

1. What to look for when selecting hides

2. How to prep a hide before working it

3. How to scrape a hide

4. How to brain a hide and where to obtain brains and equipment

5. How to wash out a hide and what to look for

6. How to twist a hide and remove all moisture

7. How to prep a hide for stretching

8. How to prepare and cook the brains

9. How to properly apply and combine the brains

10. How to tell if a hide needs to be re-brained (often done three times)

11. How to prep a hide for smoking

12. How to smoke a hide and what to look for afterward

13. What to do after the hide is smoked

14. All participant's  must be a member or a recognized Tribe. 

About the Training

Tanning a hide requires minimal stamina but strong dedication.
Every hide is different—just like every animal.

Once you learn how to tan a deer hide, you can apply the same knowledge to any animal.

I have been tanning hides for many years and have never seen two people do it the same way. What I teach is the method I developed myself. It is not claimed as the way of any single tribe or individual.

Brain tanning is a nearly lost tradition. Historically, every tribe used tanned hides for clothing, tools, drums, and daily life.
This workshop is designed to enable participants to return home and share this knowledge, helping keep the tradition alive.

When Can You Sign Up?

Right now.

For more information or to reserve a spot, call 208-244-4745