Wet Tan Hydration Instructions

The following instructions are provided as a recommendation. We have found these guidelines tend to

produce the best results; however, outcomes may vary depending on individual conditions,

environmental factors, and processing variables.

 

Wet Tan Receipt, Handling & Hydration Control Overview:

  • Open boxes immediately upon arrival.
  • Open one bag at a time. Measure immediately and re-bag without delay.
  • Leather exposure to open air must not exceed 10 minutes.
  • Hydration is surface application only. Never soak, dunk, submerge, or rinse the cape.
  • Light hydration reopens collagen correctly and allows tension-free mounting.
  • Refrigerate up to 48 hours for short-term storage.
  • If not mounted within 48 hours, freeze immediately.
  • Improper handling or extended air exposure can cause stretch loss or leather memory.

 

1) Prepare the Hydration Solution

  • 1 gallon lukewarm water (never hot, never cold).
  • 1 lb. non-iodized, additive-free salt (food-grade).
  • 2 heavy squirts of Dawn dish soap.
  • Dissolve salt fully, add soap, agitate lightly until light suds form.
  • Never use plain water.

2) How to Apply

  • Open one bag at a time and re-bag within 10–15 minutes.
  • Pull cape firmly side-to-side before applying solution.
  • Apply evenly with sponge or rag.
  • Leather should be damp, not dripping.
  • Never submerge.
  • If dripping, hang over a post or pole for 5 minutes.

 

 

3) Leather Relaxation

  • Lay ears flat on the head.
  • Loosely roll head into body and cover with shoulders.
  • Bag individually in clear plastic.
  • Remove all air and seal tightly.
  • Let sit sealed for up to 1 hour.
  • Do not leave the cape exposed during this step.

4) Long-Term Storage

  • Freeze within 48 hours whether received or rehydrated.
  • Remove ALL air from plastic bag before sealing.
  • For extended storage, place sealed plastic bag inside paper bag before freezing.
  • Freezer burn is caused by air, not cold temperature.

5) Thawing

  • Thaw inside sealed bag only, do not leave bag open.
  • If water pools in the bag, drain and reseal immediately.
  • Once thawed, pull firmly side-to-side.
  • Lightly sponge with hydration solution if needed.
  • Do not expose leather to air until it fully thaws.

6) Post-Thaw Handling & Mounting Exposure Control

  • Lightly stretch, do not over-stretch.
  • Apply hydration solution to dry spots if needed.
  • Expose only the area being worked on.
  • Never leave leather exposed to open air when not actively mounting.

* Improper hydration, over-wetting, soaking, air exposure, or thawing outside sealed containment will cause stretch loss, swelling, or leather memory.