Not being a scrimshanter I need some advice. I am currently building an ivory handle in which I am planning on doing some engraving that will be much more bold (wider) than a typical scrimshaw and would like to darken the removed areas.
For this I would appreciate some ideas as to what would be best to use for darkening of the engraved areas.
Thanks in advance.
Gary
Hello Gary. I happen to have an old book by Blackie Collins on scrimshaw and they use Higgins waterproof india ink. It does come in colors also. Diane has used it and it works well. You may need to go over the area a few times to get a deep even color. Just for fun, check out the website of Bob Hergert, Bob Hergert. Some amazing work.
Good luck
Brion
Brion Tomberlin
Anvil Top Custom Knives
ABS Mastersmith
Thanks, Brion.
Do I need to apply some type of sealer to the surface before engraving to prevent the ink from absorbing into unwanted areas?
Gary
I know your question isn't necessarily "scrimshaw", but you might check out this link:
http://www.americanbladesmith.com/ipboard/index.php?/topic/44-help-with-your-scrimshaw/
It's a posting a while back on this site in another sub-forum. There's a great offer on there from what appears to be a rather experienced guy. Might try looking him up? Either way, good luck and post pics-I'd love to see it <img src=' http://www.americanbladesmith.com/ipboard/public/style_emoticons//smile.gi f' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':)' />.
Jeremy
Jeremy Lindley, Apprentice Smith
