When you are all done and the skin is dry, take a drill with a wire wheel and suede the leather. It will soften the skin, making it more pliable. It makes a hell of a mess, so do it outside. It takes a long time but it is worth it in the end. Keep it moving so you don't burn a hole. Go in all different directions.
Good luck. You will need it and a lot of perseverence too.