Thread: Anyone tried/trying scales with really different shapes?

I've seen a lot of very nice scales in this forum. They tend to vary from each other based on what wood (or combination of woods) is used, how they're finished, and how they're pinned. What isn't nearly as common is shapes that are far from traditional. I can think of some from Alex that have a grip-like shape in them - and a couple of others whose makers I can't remember to credit - but not a lot. And what I don't think I've ever seen (not in my limited time at least) is a set of scales designed to actually look like something other than a set of scales.

I don't mean it's a Max Smart style straight razor that comes out of a shoe. What I have in my head is an image I saw of a razor whose scales were an amazingly accurate miniature violin. Unfortunately I can't find the image, but it was spectacular. Maybe most folks here find that gimicky, but I thought the combination of the razor and the remarkable woodcarving talent creating a still-functioning, totally unique razor was awesome.

I recently bought a Crown & Sword razor of Ebay that I'm now cleaning up. I wanted to do something like I'm describing above, but I have very meager woodworking talents/tools. The best I could pull off as a first attempt was to make a set of scales shaped like the scimitar that is stamped on the tang. If I remember when I get home, I'll post pictures of what I've got so far.

Anybody else tried something similar, or have an idea they've kicking around for a while?

Originally Posted by KingOfMalkier

What I have in my head is an image I saw of a razor whose scales were an amazingly accurate miniature violin.

http://www.billysblades.com/Custom%20Stuff/4564.htm

Vlad used to do that stuff- the violin was his design I believe as was a strat guitar. His name here was Vladsch I think, look for his posts and you'll find it. L.R. Harner did a Ti handle recently that was a crazy shape with Amboyna Burl coming out the bottom, but still not a "thing" shape. I think function comes into play here. It would have to be a shape that were more or less a line or a curve. i.e. it would be hard to do an Elephant or something. Well, I guess you could do an elephant but when finished, would it feel good enough while holding to make you want to shave with it?

Some of my scales, have uncommon shapes. But I like it only abstract. The violin scales are great craftmenship, but not my taste.

Those are awesome, might have to steal some designs from ya What do you use for finishes on those?

I wonder if anyone has honed up one of those old, ornate Roman shaving tools for daily use?

Also, this is a unique blade http://www.billysblades.com/Custom%2...g%20Dipper.htm

Ah! That's where I saw the violin. Thanks.

Buddel: Those very thin scales are quite intriguing, never seen any that sparse. Very nice finishes too.

Philadelph: I've seen some meatchoppers that would be very well balanced with an elephant for scales.

Here's some in-progress shots. (Be gentle. ) The scales are all ready, the blade is only at the medium dremel buff stage. I put some pin stock in just to hold everything together. I think it's kind of fun, but I can see why it wouldn't be to everyone's taste. In fact, I can see why some people would call it downright stupid. :P The fact that it has roughly a scale shape helps, I think.




I've been reading a bit about inlay and marquetry, as well. I think when I feel a little adventurous, I'll try spicing up a standard scale shape with some of that. I suspect those techniques could create some scales that would appeal to wider audiences.

Josh, that looks cool. The scimitar definitely is conducive to scales in terms of shape. Personally, I like the scales to flow with the line of the spine, but have thought a lot about trying out some "abstract" stuff like Buddel does. I will at some point I'm sure. Great job on the scimitar though and I'll be looking for more shapes from you!

Thanks, Alex. I haven't sketched out any more ideas, but I've got one ridiculous thing I'd like to try. If I can make it work on paper I'll post the sketch.