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First try at inlaying on a bow

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Muskyman:
I’ve been thinking about inlaying an arrow pass on a bow so I figured I better practice before I actually try it on the bow I care about. My first attempt was not to good but I learned a little bit about how and where I can cut. Here’s my second attempt. Still not what I’m looking for but much better. I used a razor knife and a wood chisel then went and got my dremel tool to try and flatten it out on the bottom of the cut. I’ve got some practicing to do yet before I give it a go.

ajooter:
I always like the look of the abalone shell for inlays.  I have not tried it yet myself.   I was thinking that a beveled edge might be easier to blend into the wood when reducing it down.  What are you using for material?

Hamish:
Like Ajooter mentions a slight inner bevel on the edge of the inlay makes it easier to get a cleaner fit.

I would also use a really fine pen to outline the inlay, on the wood, then work to the inside of the line rather than removing it. A knife line is always going to be just outside the size of the inlay, leads to a sloppier fit.

Selfbowman:
Cool!

Muskyman:
I was thinking on my next attempt I’d go on the inside of the line. Also thought if my piece is a fuzz big I might try fitting it to the hole. I thought I might have more control with my piece than trying to make the hole fit it.
The material I’m using is whitetail antler. I thought about abalone or mother of pearl but I really didn’t care for what I was seeing online.
I probably should get some better chisels, it might help, I don’t know.
I actually have it beveled on the underside a touch but might see if I can get it beveled a touch more.  I’m not 100 percent going to do it, it’s on my trade bow and I don’t want to jack it up. It’s Osage and I don’t think it really needs it. I just thought it might be a nice touch. I might keep practicing and try it on a bow for myself.
Thanks for the input.

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