See, I’ve got these three huge elk bones. I would like to make something usefull from them, possibly a sword-hilt if I get around to it, otherwise bone needles, dice etc. Problem is, I have very little idea on how to go about it.
Anyone have any experience with shaping bones? What tools and methods do you use?
Any resources you can point me to (websites/books etc.)?
The Society for Primitive Technology is a good place to start. They have a journal as well as online articles such as:
Antler Fishing Hook
The Scapular Saw
Antler Handle Knife
Bone Flutes
and many more general interest articles.
I collect pocket knives, and I can tell you a few details. Most bone knife handles (scales) are cut from cattle shin bones and dyed. In the case of stag horn handles, the smooth ones are from the outside of the antler, where the deer has rubbed it smooth. The rougher, lumpier pieces are from the inside, which can’t be rubbed on anything. The color is often altered with dye and scorching.
If you are arty, look into scrimshaw. Intricate pictures are scratched into the bone, then coloring is rubbed into the scratches. A lot of the tradition comes from bored whalers, working in whale bone and whale teeth.
If usinga dremel, grinder, file or even sandpaper, be sure to wear a dust mask. Bone dust is nasty stuff in the lungs, and can lead to lessions/nodules. The lessions (I know… bad spelling) are generally harmless in and of themselves, but make excellent pathways for tuberculousis and other serious lung infections.
Regards and good luck
FML