The beaver is still almost extinct in Europe, but is becoming reestablished in Canada and in protected areas of the U.S . Several states have limited trapping seasons. Dressing furs is the art of carefully scraping the skins to remove fat and flesh , washing them, and treating them with a series of chemicals that soften and preserve, or tan, the skin. Fur Fiber is the shorter fluffier fur that keeps the animal warm. Guard hair is the longer, coarse, harsh hair that sheds water and protects the fur fiber.
Processors repeatedly tumble furs in sawdust to remove grease and clean the furs.
A final glazing, ironing or spraying with a chemical and air blowing, puts a sheen on the finished fur. Pointing is a process of gluing either badger or monkey guard hair into furs. This process adds thickness and beauty to the fur by adding contrasting colors. Furs that have a rich coloration after processing are sold in their natural state. Less attractive furs may have their color changed by dyeing or bleaching.