Flexibility of a Fish Skin

Learning how to prepare and tan fish is a trial and error method. Each breed of fish is different – in size, in weight, in type and thickness of scales and in structure of the underside of the skin. Fish skins are not like other animal skins. Fish skins have a diagonal, diamond shape of structure, that give the fish flexibility for swimming, turning, manoeuvering in the water – unlike other animals whose skin structure is linear.

Different species of fish live in different types of bodies of water. Some are fresh water, some live in the salty sea. Some live mostly near the surface of the water, some in the depths of the ocean. So their skins are designed for survival in different environmental conditions – warm waters, cold waters. This all affects the structure of their skin.

Therefore, one fish tanning recipe is not fit for all types of fish. When you start to practice fish tanning, start with a basic recipe and see how it works. How best to scale the fish. How long to soak it in the salt water bath, in the lime bath, in the tanning solutions, how long to dry it and how long to soften it. You will probably go through a lot of ruined skins before you figure out what works best with your local fish. I sure did, and still do. I like the challenge of it.

My Father was a Sea Sámi and a Fisherman

I will continue on in my pursuit to understand the almost lost art of turning fish skins to leather. I think Fish are one of nature’s most amazing resources for both food and for making clothing, bags, and other useful items and this almost lost heritage Textile craft should be preserved and fostered in all cultures.

YouTube: Fish Skin Tanning – Part 2

ORIGINAL FILE DATE: JUL 27, 2024