Hey Guys,

I recently had one of my cousins bring an axis hide to one of his taxidermists to tan it. I just got it back the other day. I was hoping that the rug would be flat and could be used as a rug in my kitchen. However, the ride it very tough and dry. Does anyone know how I can break it down/loosen the hide so it is not as hard as a board??

Come on.... no one??

The cheapest way would be to take a mouse sander or a belt sander and start grinding the hard part down. Wear a dust mask. Once you go through a few layers, it will become softer and you will need to "break it" . This involves repeatedly rubbing it back and forth over the edge of a table until the fibers loosen up and it becomes pliable. It is a long process and will give you a good arm work out. Good luck!

I'm sorry partner, I was in a rush this morning and was typing fast....."break it" first then sand it. The other way may cause a rip or tear. Sorry for the confusion.