How Animal Hides Are Made Into Parchment At The Last Workshop In The US | Still Standing

Introduction

This tutorial outlines the traditional process used to turn animal hides into parchment at Pergamena, the last workshop in the United States specializing in this ancient craft. Understanding the steps involved not only highlights the artistry and skill behind parchment-making but also sheds light on a nearly lost craft that has historical significance.

Step 1: Sourcing Animal Hides

• Select Quality Hides: The process begins with selecting animal hides, often from goats, sheep, or calves. Look for hides that are healthy and free of defects.
• Local Sourcing: Prioritize sourcing hides from local farms or ethical suppliers to ensure sustainability and quality.

Step 2: Skinning and Preparation

• Careful Skinning: The hides must be carefully skinned to preserve as much of the material as possible. This process requires skill to avoid tearing.
• Initial Cleaning: Once skinned, the hides are cleaned to remove any remaining flesh or fat. This step is crucial for the tanning process.

Step 3: Tanning the Hides

• Soaking in Solutions: The hides are soaked in a mixture of water and tannins, which are natural substances that help preserve the hides. This process can take several weeks.
• Natural Tanning Methods: Pergamena uses traditional tanning methods that involve using plant-based tannins, which are more environmentally friendly compared to synthetic options.

Step 4: Drying and Stretching

• Stretching the Hides: After tanning, the hides are stretched on a frame to prevent them from curling or shrinking. This ensures a flat surface for further processing.
• Controlled Drying: The hides are dried in a controlled environment to maintain their quality and prevent damage.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

• Trimming Edges: Once dried, the hides are trimmed to remove any uneven edges and prepare them for cutting into parchment sheets.
• Final Treatment: The parchment may undergo additional treatments, such as smoothing or polishing, to enhance its texture and appearance.

Step 6: Quality Control

• Inspection: Each piece of parchment is inspected for quality. Look for uniform thickness and absence of blemishes.
• Testing Durability: Conduct tests for durability and flexibility, ensuring the final product meets the required standards for use in various applications, like art or bookbinding.

Conclusion

The process of transforming animal hides into parchment is an intricate art that combines tradition with skilled craftsmanship. By understanding the steps involved, one can appreciate the effort and expertise required to produce this unique material. For those interested in exploring parchment-making, consider visiting local workshops or studying traditional techniques to gain hands-on experience.