Question about tanning a snake skin - updated with pics

[CJNAZ]

I've read thru previous posts about tanning rattlesnake hides and will be going with the 50/50 mixture of Glycerine/denatured alcohol.

My question is about the rattle itself. I want to leave the rattle on the hide. I've got a 3 footer and a 5 1/2 footer.

 

Do I soak the rattle in the mixture?

 

Update - I made these from the smaller critter. Went ahead and removed the rattles while tanning the hides. First attempt at leatherwork with a hide. Really enjoyed the challenge and it is a keepsake that should last a long time.

 

[5nRamirez]

You pretty much answered your own question when keeping the rattle I always pin it up on a board and brush it once a Day for about a week it has always worked for me

[singleshot]

Try Corn Huskers Lotion sometime to tan your snake hides. Pin them scales down and salt them until dry and then work them over quite a few times with Corn Huskers Lotion. Avoid getting any on the rattles. They turn out super pliable and last forever.

[azgutpile]

If you tan the skin with the rattles attached, it will the rattle a little darker and quieter. It does seem to make it more durable.

 

You can just pop the rattle off at the last button and then glue it back on later.

[Red Sparky]

+1 with singleshot.

[CJNAZ]

Added a couple pics to O/P. All the info I found on this forum helped. Thanks.

[MathewQuigly]

i thought you was suppose to roll the skin up and place it in a jar of the solution, can't remem how long

I'm asking I don't know and would like to

[murfys69law]

I've heard some people use Anti-Freeze. Never have but maybe it works.

[rossislider]

Looks good!