The making of fish skin leather is an almost forgotten ancient skill that was once common among ocean and freshwater communities in the Northern Hemisphere in places such as Japan, China, Norway, Sweden, Alaska and the Pacific Coast. It is a beautiful textile that can be tanned in different ways to create a strong leather for clothing, pouches, wallets, footwear and art. In this two part class we will explore tea tanning and will use everyday materials you will likely find in your own home. In Part 1 we will prepare our fish skins for tanning and prepare a tannin liquor. In Part 2 we will soften and finish our skins into a beautiful leather. By the end, you will know all you need to know to have your own simple home fish tannery!
DATES:
Note it is TWO classes: May 6 & 13, 7-9pm PST
Supplies needed:
1. A fish skin or more (from at least a fillet of fish). Salmon, halibut, cod, etc. Take care when skinning to keep in one piece with no holes.
2. Something to scrape with: a tablespoon, seashells with smooth edges, mason jar lid
3. Dish soap
4. Bowls for washing and rinsing
5. Rag, hand towel or apron
6. Paint scraper or old debit card
7. Cutting board
8. Oil (coconut, bacon fat, margarine, etc.)
9. Black tea...a box of Tetley, Red Rose, or any other old black tea you have lurking around
Registration Fee Scale for both classes (charged after the first class): $100 | $50 | $25 (Regular in person class is $125)
Reservation Fee: $2
Note: If you are in the Vancouver area and can’t easily access at least one fish skin, please contact me and I may be able to help you out.
Event Date and Time:
Wednesday, May 06, 2020 - 07:00 PM PDT AND Wednesday, May 13, 2010 - 07:00 PM PDT
Venue: Zoom
I am using a sliding scale model on a platform called We Show Up, where you register for an account, reserve your spot in the event, and then pay AFTER the class and YOU determine the amount.* This new start up business makes it possible for artists and small businesses to hold virtual events with their support, and all for FREE. 100% of registration fees paid go directly to the artist/entrepreneur.
*Note that you will be charged the reservation fee if you reserve but don’t show up.