Just inside the tough outer layer of False Tinder Fungus is a velvety smooth inner layer that resembles felt or the finest suede! This is known as "Amadou".

This material can be used to make clothing or catch a spark for fire-making.

The arrow and the lines in the photo show which layer this is.

If you're very careful, you can peel or shave this velvety layer off and use it.

First carefully remove the outer "bark". Then, equally carefully, lift off the soft inner layer.

This photo shows a couple of pieces that have been removed from a False Tinder Fungus, along with an intact piece of the fungus itself.

These pieces were made by Rob Bicevskis

A larger piece.

This material can be used as a tinder pad to catch sparks, such as from flint-and-steel fire-making.

It can also be used in clothing, but be aware that it doesn't wear very well, as it is relatively fragile. So, maybe you could make a hat or underwear from it. Or maybe use it as a liner for mitts. It's absorbent too.

Who would've thought that you could use fungus for clothing!!

This piece was made by Rob Bicevskis

Here is a link to a picture that clearly shows the important layer: www.capnfishy.co.uk/resources/Articles/amadou.htm
This link also describes some other ways to prepare the material.

Another link: www.svims.ca/ff0295.pdf has starting on page 2 a write-up about "clothing" that has been made from the "beaten" amadou.

Survival Fire Tinder Tinder Fungus Tinder Bundles

READ THE DISCLAIMER