TANNED OPOSSUM FUR COLLECTION
Opossum is one of the more interesting furs we carry, and one of the most misunderstood. It is layered, with different colors at different depths, which gives it a depth and movement that flat single-tone furs do not have.
North American opossum
Our open tanned North American opossum is split down the belly and laid flat, which makes it far easier to work with for sewing and craft projects than a cased pelt. The characteristic layered coat - dark guard hairs over pale underfur - creates a distinctive frosted appearance.
We also carry sheared opossum, where the guard hairs are trimmed to expose the dense underfur beneath. The result is a soft, uniform, velvety texture that is completely different from the natural pelt and works beautifully as trim.
Brush-tail possum
The New Zealand brush-tail possum is a different animal from the North American opossum and behaves differently as a fur. The coat is thicker, softer and more uniform, with a natural silvery-grey to warm brown range. Brush-tail is prized for its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio. We stock it natural, dyed, and sheared and dressed for a plush, even pile.
Working with opossum
Opossum suits hats, mittens, trim, teddy bears and doll work, pillows and educational displays. It is an excellent choice for classroom and nature-center collections where students handle the pelts, since it is durable and inexpensive enough to replace. All pelts are professionally tanned with workable leather. Volume discounts apply automatically at 5%, 10% and 15%.
