Scrimshaw/Engraving and Filework on knives

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Showcasing scrimshaw art on knives. also welcoming discussion on scrimshaw tools and techniques.

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KnifeMaker

Scrimshaw Artist Wants to Connect

by Michael Cohen

Sep 13, 2013

Hi Everybody,

I feel a little bit over my head here, as I have very little experience with the knife collector community. I hope my posting here is not out of line.

I'm a long-time scrimshander, having started with the Alaska Silver and Ivory Company in Bellingham Washington back in 1974. I've been freelance since '76, mostly doing work for retailers in Hawaii, Alaska, California, and New England. I've always been curious about the field of engraved knife handles, but I've had no contact with anyone involved in the trade. I'd love to start doing commissioned work on knives, and I was wondering if someone might give me some advice on a good way to start.

You can see samples of my work at: http://lizsumner.com/mcscrimshaw/

Thanks,

Michael Cohen

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  • up

    KnifeMaker

    Michael Cohen

    Thanks to everyone who wrote back to me, you're a very supportive group.

    As far as scrimshaw tools go, here's what I recommend:

    X-Acto Blades

      #11 for most line work

      #16 for heavier lines or for very hard ivory

    A sharp engraver's stylus for doings dots or some curved lines

    A pencil made for drawing on glass or ceramic

    A #7 Opti-visor for good magnification

    Some nice thick black oil paint

    Some thin brushes for applying paint

    That's it.

    Best,

    Michael

    Sep 14, 2013

  • up

    KnifeMaker

    Dave Taylor

    First of all Michael, welcome to iKC.  You will find many friends here.

    Your work is beautiful and obviously advanced.  It is apparent you have been adding to your expertise for a long time.  I believe you will have a good experience here as a member of the iKC "Family".  As you know, commissions can come from many directions and I expect you will find a few as you join us and share with us pictures of your work.  As everyone here will tell you, "We love pictures!"

    Again, Welcome.

    Sep 14, 2013

  • up

    In Memoriam

    Doug Webber



    Michael Cohen said:

    Thanks to everyone who wrote back to me, you're a very supportive group.

    As far as scrimshaw tools go, here's what I recommend:

    X-Acto Blades

      #11 for most line work

      #16 for heavier lines or for very hard ivory

    A sharp engraver's stylus for doings dots or some curved lines

    A pencil made for drawing on glass or ceramic

    A #7 Opti-visor for good magnification

    Some nice thick black oil paint

    Some thin brushes for applying paint

    That's it.

    Best,

    Michael

    I have a knife or two that I would be willing to send your way...if you can do work on natural bone. You can contact me at nocj8169@yahoo.com  Maybe we can work something out.

    Aug 11, 2015