When your putting a beaver in a willow hoop, what measurements do you use for punching holes in the hide to run your lacing through? Is 3 inches apart about right? How far from the edge of the hide? Half inch too close to the edge? Would appreciate any information from guys who have hooped some before.
Posted By: Boco
Re: Beaver - 04/23/22 06:06 PM
If you are hooping a beaver for real,1 inch apart and 1/16 in from the edge.
If you are just making a decoration it doesnt matter.
It’s for decoration Boco. Beaver is tanned. Just didn’t want the outside edge to curl or ripp out by getting too close to the edge punching holes. First one I’ve hooped after tanning. I nail or staple them oval on a pattern board after fleshing them. Didn’t thin it very much before the tan, especially along the edges, too guard against a rip out.
Put it on the hoop wet, curved needle like taxidermists use, big enough for artificial sinew. Needle will go through pretty easy when wet, then it will tighten up as it dries. Put them however far apart you like the looks of, close to the edge is fine, unless you made it real thin it won't tear out.