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During the Renaissance, many in poorer communities relied on fish skin to create practical clothing due to its durability and water-resistance. To process fish skin, people would first remove the scales and flesh from the fish, leaving just the tough outer layer. They then stretched and dried the skin to make it more flexible and usable. Once dried, the skin could be softened through repeated soaking in water or by using natural oils, making it pliable enough to be cut and sewn into various items. The fish commonly used for this purpose included freshwater fish like cod, pike, or carp, as their skins were large and sturdy enough to be transformed into materials that could serve as aprons, shoes, or even underwear. The careful handling and preparation of fish skin turned what would otherwise be discarded into a valuable resource for those who couldn’t afford traditional fabrics.
Fish skin, with its toughness and practicality, became an essential resource in communities where other materials were scarce. It wasn’t just discarded—it was carefully processed and turned into a form of usable leather. The entire process involved scraping off excess flesh, drying the skin, and then softening it with water or oil. This allowed people to make functional clothing items that could withstand wear and tear, making it a much-needed solution for those living in tough economic conditions. The fish most commonly used included larger, more robust freshwater varieties that provided enough material to create sturdy garments. These items helped protect individuals from the elements while allowing them to continue with their daily routines.
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