Materials: Bobcat skin, leather, acrylic paint
Description: There are some questionably "vintage" hides out there; however, this bobcat is most definitely the real deal. I pulled it from a rug dated (on the rug shell) to 1969. It's got the wear and tear to prove it, too! I trimmed away some dry-rotted fur around the edges, and did a paint patch on a few bare spots (the picture makes it look worse than it is!), as well as doing some other minor repair work. I then added deerskin straps to tie the skin under the chin; it measures 34 1/2" long and it's surprisingly lightweight! Great for dancing or a part of ritual wear in general, and nice if you prefer lowering the demand for new hides.
I created my first full skin totem dance costume (which I still have!) in 2002, and have created many in the years since then. Not content with just a chin strap, I developed unique systems of straps to distribute the weight more evenly. This was not taught to me; rather, I have developed my techniques independently through trial and error, as well as years of skindancing myself. As with all my creations, this costume has been purified as a part of my shamanic practice and is ready for ritual work. Additional details such as teeth or decoration may be added at additional cost; just ask!
Please note that shipping includes insurance and delivery confirmation.
***Animal parts may NOT be shipped outside the U.S.; BOBCAT PARTS may not be sent to New Jersey; please do not ask me to make an exception for you.***
The majority of my supplies are from secondhand sources, such as old fur and leather coats, or beads from old jewelry. Everything made with animal parts is given a full ritual purification according to my spiritual path. A portion of the proceeds is donated to nonprofit organizations such as the Defenders of Wildlife.
Have any questions?
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