Thread: Scale material

I've been wanting to try some bone for scales and today finally ordered some along with a some horn. I have a heavy Wosty that has probably hard plastic scales that is crying for either horn or bone. Now i need to find a pc. of imitation black mop. I've made scales out of horn and the mop but this will be the first attempt with bone. I think this is going to be fun.

Its easy to work with. Just go slow and don't scorch it with whatever you try to sand and shape it with. A good dried stabilized piece of bone is like working with softer wood. I tried my hand at it a few times and it was very nice to work with. I found a seller that sells camel bone in 1x6x1/8 blanks that are fine sanded on one side. They are perfect for most of our needs. Post pics when your done.

Done a couple. Stinks when it gets warmed by sawing, will change color in a minute if overheated. But...It is a great material for scales! And, It sure looks purty!
~Richard

After you shape your scales, it you soak them for a few days in hydrogen peroxide it will bleach it quite nicely. The regular drugstore variety works fine it just takes that long. If you had access to the high test stuff it will be quicker.