After I re-hydrate the tanned cape, how long should I let it dry before before I start mounting it on the form. It seems if I let it completely dry out it shrinks, but if I don't let completely dry out it doesn't stick to the form very well. Can somebody tell me the correct way to re-hydrate the cape. Thanks in advance.

One suggestion would be to that after you rehydrate the tanned cape, to let it dry for a day or two. It will still be damp, but more plyable. I like it a little damp when I mount mine. I never have a problem with the hide paste sticking to a damp cape. I guess it depends what you use. Having the hide a little more plyable will make it a lot easier to make adjustments on the form. Thats what i'd do. Good Luck.

You don't want it to dry, but not dripping wet either. I put mine in the washing machine on spin cycle to get all the water out. After that, it's straight to the form.