HOW TO DRY SMALL SPECIMENS WITH SALT & BORAX
ITEMS NEEDED:
Borax Detergent Booster
Morton Pickling Salt
Tupperware container
Rosemary sprigs
DIRECTIONS:
Make a mixture of borax and salt, using a ration of one to one. Add aromatic herbs if wanted.
Take salt/borax mixture and pour a layer to the bottom of the container, about half an inch. Place the specimen inside.
Pour in the rest of the salt/borax mixture until they are completely submerged.
It is extremely important that the container you use is able to breath - don't put an air tight lid on it. I placed some loose clingwrap over the top.
Leave to dry in a well ventilated space for a few weeks. For wings and smaller items, it takes 3-4 weeks. Small bird heads take up to 5 weeks.
Exchange the mixture around the 2nd week to keep it fresh – however, it isn’t fully necessary.
If you’re salting anything for longer than 3 weeks, you'll need to exchange the salt/borax mixture. This is so NO odor sets in. For humid areas: it could take a little longer.
Once the specimens are dry (they will be firm, with no moisture) you can brush off any salt/borax with an old toothbrush. If you notice ANY odor, allow it to air dry in a well ventilated space for a few days. Then soak it in a dry bath of aromatic herbs (cedar, clove, flower petals, mint… etc). You can also use smoke to help with odor, all you do is allow any smoke or fumes to further dry/absorb into your specimen by burning cedar, incense or other good smelling things nearby. Tips: If you're removing organs and you've made an incision, be sure to rub borax or salt solution under as much of the skin as you can. The goal is to wait until ALL the moisture is gone and item is no longer flexible. The longer it’s cured, the better. For odors, mix in rosemary sprigs. All specimens should be ethically sourced
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