degreasing rawhide for backings

[walkabout]

working on a bow, and im using a rawhide backing, however im wondering how i can degrease it for use. it is still sort of greasy and i want to be sure it will stick. any suggestions?

[John Scifres]

Soak and wash it in some Dawn and warm water.  You'll have to restretch and dry it.  Just tack it to a board real tight and then and a couple bits of dowel under the ends so it will get air flow all around.

[Pat B]

I put it down wet after washing it in Dawn.

[John Scifres]

Never thought of that Pat.  Do you stretch it in any way when it is wet?

[Pat B]

Not really, John. Never thought of that! d;^)

[Art B]

Never had to degrease any rawhide before but I do rough up the side to be glued down with 80/100 grit paper before wetting. ART