Carving Detail into Antler?

[luieb45]

I've made a few antler powder measures lately and have carved the number of grains the measure holds(55,75,etc.). I've been using a nail to write in the numbers but I can only do square numbers in straight lines because it takes a LOT of scratching to get it in there. What do you use to put in the detail I see people do with their measures. I'd like to start putting my initials into my powder measures but had this idea to do it in cursive letters. Any tips on how to do this? Thanks.

 

[omarick1948]

Carbide machinist scribe, Exacto knife with #11 blades, re-ground sharpened pocket knife etc.

 

[scobrien]

I second what Horner75 says.

One other option is to try a very small V or U gouge. I have used both in the past, but they do leave wider lines and put limits on doing realy fine detail. I found it fairly easy to make curves with them.

I also find the curves much harder to do on antler than on horn. When scratching/carving on antler, the tool needs to be "scary sharp."

 

[Brasilikilt]

I know a guy who carves all manner of swirly designs in antler....he uses his Dremel tool.

He uses a few different bits such as the mini router-looking bit used for wood, the small ball tip which I think is for cutting tile or glass and the small drum sanding tips from time to time.

I myself have made small chisels out of the tang end of broken files, ground the bevels on a belt sander and finished them on a buffing wheel.
For cutting tough antler it helps A LOT if you mount them onto a handle.

hope this helps.

 

[zimmerstutzen]

If you are very steady with one of those small low voltage roto tools like Harbor Freight sells for $9.00 A small 1/64th burr ought to do a good job. Somer folks are pretty steady with them. Might take some practice.

I have an old engraving machine. Looks like a pantograph with a diamond scribe to scratch the inscription. There are letters to arrange and trace. Came free out of an old Woolworth store from back when engraved ID bracelets were the rage. (1960's) It will do a good looking job on gun barrels and knives.

 

[matt denison]

Here's how I make an easy quick-fast scribe:

I use something like either antler, hardwood dowel or ? for a suitable handle about 4 inches long.

I set up in the drill press to drill a 1/16" hole in the end lengthwise. I take a 1/16 drill bit that I am willing to sacrafice, drill it into the handle and just before the flutes are burried into the handle I turn off the drill press (while the bit is still spinning) and force the last 1/4" of the bit into the material so it screws in a little before friction stops it from spinning. Now that the bit is firmly held in the handle I sharpen the end sticking out. Use a grinder and dip it often to keep it cool. When done you have a hard scribe with a handle so you can use it easier.

 

[scobrien]

Laffindog, that is a slick idea :thumbsup:

 

[shortbow]

I concur Laffin, Imna borry that'n if ya don't mind. Thanks a lot.

 

[SpottedBull]

How about using a vibrating engraver...like you use to engrave metal stuff? Would it work on horn as well?