Scrimshaw attempt

[FlaminCrow]

Yes pulling allows the tool to dig more, also easier to control.
Adjust the grind on your tool also. Just like a blade, sharper the angle, easier it will cut, but easier it will chip as well.

 

[FlaminCrow]

Made this out of a 1/8” drill bit. It never got hot enough to loose hardness.

I started out using drill bits myself. I used 1/16 and 1/8 carbide bits I ground.

 

[wayne1967]

I use a finishing nail, filed with a burr on the tip (it wears down so I need to re-burr at times). Engrave on the pull rather than the push stroke. I get some good depth this way.

Here I was reading all over the tip needs to be really pointed like a dental pick. Yours looks a little raspy. I guess the really pointed ones are good for very small lines

 

[tunadawg]

I used a finish nail that I sharpened on a diamond stone. I had difficulty with the S's and O's, those tight curves were tough for me not to skate off the line.

 

[Colonial Boy]

I’ve done worse,

 

[Rebel bull]

I have used just about everything you can imagine to scratch horns from jeweler's gravers (i was trained as a engraver while in high school, I never got good enough to actually do it for anybody else LACK OF PRACTICE!) to exacto knives, even vibro engravers my best work is with the vibro with the arthritis in my hands it works best for me

 

[Terrier]

Brew up a strong tea and you can age it thataway. Gives it a nice tone. Wax or beeswax to seal it.