Thread: Reynolds with Whale Scale

I've had this F. Reynolds on the to do pile as the original scales were shot and needed replacements. The style of razor always reminded me of a Humpback Whale.
So that was my theme. I selected some streaked horn with a very swoopy pattern to it to suggest movement and compliment the flow of the blade itself.
I then used a section of an old cracked Ivory scale with some patina ( new Ivory is too white for this) , drew out a whale and cut it out on a band saw and refined it with some files, burrs and stones.

Then once I had the whale I simply transferred the design to the scales and hollowed out an area for it to sit in. Once fitted I epoxied it in place and sanded the whole thing smooth. Then to add a little interest to the Whale I Scrimshawed some details on it.

Odd but I enjoy it.

I like it - it fits nicely. Very artistic. What kind of tools do you use to cut the negative into the scales?

Mark, this is getting redundant- Great Work! a real pleasure on the eyes.

I used whatever I could put my hands on. Rotary burrs ,stones, small chisels , X-acto knives.
Fitting is a PITA at this size. One small OOPs and there it is.
There are a couple if issues i want to address yet but it's essentially all there.

I have no words..... That is beautiful... Good job!

Straight up awesome, I like the details you put on the whale inlay!!

Looks great

What I love about your work, Mark, is that you are a master of both art and craft. And, you combine that with love and respect for history. And, again, there is an indescribable Zen/mystical aspect to your work. Well done, as always. Namaste.

That scrimshaw on such a small piece is amazing. Bet you were cross eyed for a few days ha ha ha!

That's the beauty of Magnification. I live lately with the visor type on my head. And I still can't see what I'm doing half the time.