TAWING Meaning and
Definition
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Tawing is a term that refers to a traditional method of treating animal hides or skins to make them soft, pliable, and more suitable for various uses. This process is typically carried out on hides of animals like goat, sheep, or deer, and is often practiced before the hides are further processed into leather.
The tawing process involves immersing the hides in a solution containing alum or other mineral salts, which helps to remove fats and oils that naturally occur in the skin. These substances can make hides stiff and prone to decay if not properly treated. By soaking the hides in the tawing solution, the salts react with the fats and oils, rendering them soluble and allowing them to be easily washed away.
Once the initial treatment is complete, the hides are stretched, dried, and then further manipulated using tools or mechanical processes to increase their softness and flexibility. This can include techniques like rubbing, scraping, or sanding. The end result of the tawing process is a soft, supple hide that can be used for a range of applications, such as clothing, footwear, or bookbinding.
Tawing has a long history and has been practiced for centuries in different cultures around the world. While the process has largely been replaced by more modern methods of leather production, it still holds value for artisans and traditional craftsmen who seek to keep the ancient techniques alive.
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The art or operation of preparing skins for white leather by impregnating them with saline, oily, and other matters, instead of tanning them.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TAWING
Etymology of TAWING
The word "tawing" has its origins in Middle English. It comes from the Old English word "tawian", which means "to prepare, dress, or convert". In turn, the Old English word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "tawojan", meaning "to prepare or make ready". The verb "taw" is often used in the context of preparing animal hides for leather production. Overall, the etymology of "tawing" revolves around the process of preparing or converting animal hides.
