Thread: Hardcore ivory scale repair

I didn't take in-progress pics, but the process is really simple. I'm working on repairing ivory scales that are 'far gone'. I got these two in this condition:





There were big chunks out of the scales and major cracks. My plan was basically to clean up the cut surfaces, make replacement parts, and then blend them in to the scales. Cyanoacrylate glue works wonders on ivory, bonding strongly and quickly. Here are the results so far:





I still need to dye the new ivory pieces as they are quite stark in contrast to the aged scales. But I'm happy with the results so far.

The bottom scale in picture 2 looks slick!

How are you going to dye them to match?

Very cool. Looking forward to seeing the finished product.

the bottom scale you could pass off as on purpose if you were not trying to make an authentic restore. I'm most curious as to how you will manage to stain them to match.

Zak has used tea to dye ivory. I'm going to try that.

Originally Posted by ScienceGuy

Zak has used tea to dye ivory. I'm going to try that.

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Tea is good. I have dyed some scales with Angostura Aromatic Bitters. That works well too. Also coffee works. There are many options at the art supply store with water color and diluted opaque guache water based paint.

Imagination rules.

Tea works,coffee works, polish the ivory than use a mordant to etch (white viniger), looking foreward to the results.

Very nice, especially the first one… a gorgeous blade.

I agree with ResDog, it does look as if the patch was designed, perhaps with a silver inlay at the scarf joints and a large treble stepped “a la eurpoean” collar like on the French Tortoise razor you posted, (loved those also) would really set it off. I don’t think I would stain it, looks good as is.

Nice work.

You have a very interesting project here!! I don't have anything to add for counsel so I'm just going to wait on the sidelines and watch the game as it goes!!

Looks good so far!