Tanning with Tannins (vegetable agents), with Nicholas WazeeGale

Come learn the basics of using various tannin-rich (i.e. tannic acid) plant materials to do the chemical process to tan and turn raw skins into in easily softened leather. This process is applicable to all sorts of skins but various deer species, sheep, goats and other medium thickness leathers will be the primary focus here. Hair-off/leather will be the focus, but we will discuss hair-on tanning with this method also. I will have deerskins readied at all major stages so that participants will get hands-on experience with the full process, but it takes several days to weeks to complete a skin, and participants will not leave with any finished leather. For participants looking to use this process in the winter months following the class, consider gathering live sumac leaves (Staghorn or Smooth, not poison sumac) and drying and storing them in large quantity for the winter.

Date: Saturday, December 2
Time: 9-4:30
Ages: 18+ years
Location: Viola, WI
Lunch is included.

Sliding Scale Course Fee Guidelines (not including Materials Fees)

Supporter Level Ticket: $125
If you move through the world with financial ease and the means to fulfill many of your wants as well as your needs – you are able to eat out when you want, abundantly meet your needs through employment or can comfortably not work, have access to family wealth, own property, etc. – consider paying at this level, which will help us ensure the long term sustainability of our programs while keeping our offerings accessible to those with access to fewer resources.

Sustainer Level Ticket: $100
If you are able to meet your needs with relative ease while budgeting your educational and entertainment spending – for instance, you are able to take classes and eat out occasionally as long as you are mindful – consider paying at this level, which will help sustain the work of the Folk School at a modest level.

Supported Level Ticket: $75
If you struggle to fund your basic needs and have limited access to resources in your family and community, or if you would not be able to access this offering without a discounted payment option, consider paying at this level. We value your presence and contributions to our community and do not want any economic circumstances to be a barrier to attendance!