Main Discussion Area > Primitive Skills

Carving/scrimshaw and Cow Horns

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SKÖLDMÖ:
I am making a drinking horn using cow horn. I would like to add some carvings into it, and would drink the best method to carve bone. I do not want to use any form of power drill. Thanks guys!

Pat B:
An awl with a sharp point should work fine for it. All you are doing is scratching the surface, wiping on the ink and wiping off the excess leaving the ink in the scratched. For carving a rat tail rasp, files and maybe a sharp blade.

stuckinthemud:
For actual carving then a few palm chisels from a good manufacturer are a must.  The essential is a v-tool and a nearly flat gouge (a number 3 on the English system); a deep u-gouge is also a really good idea (number  8 )- usually you can only buy palm gouges in sets and these 3 tools are pretty much in all of them but its always worth checking.

mullet:
I have some tools I made up for scrimshawing. One is a nail sanded on a belt sander till it is needle sharp and another is a large leather sewing needle, both mounted in a small wooden handle. I also use an Exacto knife. I sketch what I want on the horn with a pencil and then cut and scrape with the tools. Then rub in real good into the scratches, India ink, or go over the lines with a Sharpie.The sharpie is what I use most and don't have to sand as much to get rid of the excess out of the scratches. And, it lasts for a long time and doesn't fade after it's sealed.

EdwardS:
I carve horn with files and sandpaper for the most part.  If I'm carving knotwork or some similar I use a Dremel tool.  Be sure to wear a mask if you do so though.

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