Does anyone here scrimshaw?

[David LaPell]

I was thinking of expanding outward in some of my hobbies, and I was thinking of getting into scrimshawing. Does anyone know of any supply houses, places I could get some ivory pieces (alot of people get started on old piano keys).

 

[Stonecove]

Hi,
I am by no means a professional but I do some hobby scrimshaw on powder horns. Cow horns are softer than ivory, but are a good way to learn the art without ruining a bunch of expensive ivory. Here's a source for horns:Track of the Wolf - Raw unfinished powder horns
You might get into horning too!
I also use ivory colored micarta. This is where I get my micarta:Sheffield Supply Catalog
As for tools, you might get some ideas from this forum called "The Horners Bench". Some use sharpened sewing needles, exaxto knives. Though I've used those, I prefer a Coulter tool, which is carbide tipped.
scrimshawtoolman on Etsy
If you need further information, feel free to ask or send me a separate email.
Here is a sample of my scrimshaw.
Stonecove
ps the Horner's Bench has some truely remarkable artist, whether period style or modern. Look around.

 

[TXSWFAN]

The best scrimshaw I've owned is by Rick Bowles. He's the authorized Scrimshander for Randall Made Knives. He does some great wildlife scenes. He's got some nice knives for sale too. I use the Bowles skinner to make quick work of my deers. It capes really well and has nice heft to hammer thru bone.
Fine Scrimshaw by Rick Bowles

 

[2152hq]

Most of the ivory dealers that also make grips and jewelry sell their scrap pieces by the pound (and sorted by size/shape)

One I've bought from in the past is Boone Trading Co.
Here's a link (Hopefully) to a page on their website that lists scrap ivory for sale w/pics.
Boone Trading Company - Elephant Ivory

Nutmeg Sports/Jim Alaimo, used to sell scrap also I think but I don't see it on their website now,,or at least I can't locate it.
Worth a look anyway if for nothing more than the guns, ivory and engraving!
Nutmeg Sports, LLC

 

[TXSWFAN]

A little off topic. Sorry OP. But I just got this pic off one of the links above.

This is a lot of ivory.