rawhide too thick for backing?

[furdressing1]

 I have just read an article in PA on the building of knife sheaths and in the article the author was cutting the rawhide with a utility knife. The rawhide I have been trying to use for backing on bows cannot be cut with a knife even when rehydrated ( much too thick). The best way I have found is with a jig saw when still hard. My question is: is my rawhide too heavy and thick for backing and this is why I can't seem to have it adhere to the bow? If so has someone got a suggestion on how to reduce the thickness?
  Thanks
   Dale

[Barrage]

A table belt sander works fantastic.  Or a hand belt sander if you don't have a table belt sander.

[Cameroo]

I agree with the belt sander.  One other tip is that if you cut strips and they're wavy, it's much easier to thin them on the sander if they're flat.  I found it helps if you soak the rawhide a bit to soften it, then clamp it between two boards.  It will dry nice and flat and you can get it to a nice even thickness.  (Just don't clamp between treated lumber or it will stain green ) And make sure you sand the flesh side of the hide.

[crooketarrow]

  I'd say if you can't cut it,it's to thick. Sand it like said above. I like it thin,thinner the better. When I backed bows I like mine 16 'th even thinner will work just fine. Remember it's rock hard and thinner it is the more plyable it will be.

[furdressing1]

Thanks guys, I guess it's time to get the belt sander working and give this another go. Appreciate the advice.
    Dale