EMULSIFIED OILS

The first sustainable tanning technique is the use of emulsified oils.

A mixture of egg yolk and a vegetable oil, in this case sunflower oil, is used to make the skin softer and to improve its properties in terms of withstanding the elements. The sunflower oil replaces the moisture in the skin of the fish, meanwhile the egg yolk works as the active ingredient.

HOW TO? Lay the skin in a suitable container with the egg and vegetable oil mixture. Make sure every part of the fish skin is covered with the tanning mixture. Let the skin soak in the mixture for about 24 hours. The longer you will leave the skin in the mixture, the softer it will get. Leave the skin not longer than 48 hours in the oil mixture. Otherwise the skin starts to become transparent.

Afterwards wash out the mixture and treat it with animal fat to keep the skin well moisturized. Hang the skin up and massage it until dry to get the softest and most flexible result.

The technique of using a mixture of emulsified oils works best for dyeing the fish skin. TIPS & TRICKS: DYEING

Mix natural ingredients with egg yolk and sunflower oil to create an intense dye to create beautiful colors.

For further information on dyeing techniques, please have a look through “Sustainable Dyeing Techniques” from page 15 onwards.