Hi Seth :) I get my bone from family farm cows that have died of old age or natural causes. I like to process and degrease it on my own because I can whiten it organically without harsh chemicals. Most farms have a "bone yard", and it doesn't hurt to ask if you can pick through it. However, if that isn't and option for you, you might also be able to get bone from local butcher shops, or pet supply stores. Some folks don't like getting bone from pet stores because they say it is more brittle and flaky than home processed bone... but this has not been my experience. I have bought it from the pet store a few times when I'm in a pinch, and it was perfectly carvable... Admittedly, however, I don't normally buy it processed like that due to personal preference(I like to know where the bone comes from and how the cows lived). If you want to process your own bone, this video by Antipodart santi is pretty close to how I do it. The only exception is I put some dawn dish detergent in the boiling water, I use an electric band saw instead of a manual saw, and after it is degreased and cleaned, I let my bone sit outside in an open tub full of a white vinegar and water solution for up to 2 weeks: th-cam.com/video/khpcOGZxHec/w-d-xo.html Hope this helps! :)
I've watched many videos on stone and bone carving..for some reason yours is the easiest to follow and you don't bore me,thanks sister look forward to watching more of your videos, blessings and thanks for being
I just found your channel, and I see that you haven't posted in a few years so I don't know if you'll ever see this comment but I need you to know I seriously love your energy. You seem so kind and down to earth, your videos are very detailed but at the same time simple enough that I don't get confused or bored. I'm going to binge all your videos now!! I hope someday you return to youtube!
☮ I'm glad I happened upon your tutorial. As a carpenter/builder living in the Yosemite region, I find so many interesting natural, organic, even some man made items in the streams flowing through my place. Jade, bone, crystals, native artifacts (which never leave the property) driftwood, quartz and all type of stone. In my search for a way to enjoy more artistic endeavors using beautiful naturally sourced items from my glen I find I've been searching plenty of online content. I just want to say that I found your video (you) to be so easy to understand, well spoken, very knowledgeable while moving through the sequences at the right pace and giving great info but not too much....like I am in my comment. Thanks for teaching an established craftsman some new tricks.
I do antler carving and use a 4300 dremel that has a dial up speed on the tail end of the machine, works well for me, use wet & dry sandpaper always make sure it is wet and above all take my time not rush anything as I am wheelchair bound so have heaps of time, PS just made 2 rings today
Please tell me you have a good particle respirator now!!??? Bone dust is absolutely awful in any amount in your lungs and sinuses. You are a fantastic artist and I want you around teaching this stuff forever!
I'm a beginner as far as bone carving, but with the help of your video I've improved a lot. I use Dremel tools with dental bits my dentist saves for me. Since I repaired and restored fretted and stringed instruments for years I had a bunch of bone, pearl, and abalone in my scrap box. Now I've found a great way to recycle it. I get my bone from PetSmart which gives me enough clean bone for a bunch of projects. I don't sell my stuff. I usually give it to friends for birthdays, or as Christmas gifts. It's a great hobby, and the more I do the better I get. Practice, practice, practice. Have straight bits and conical bits, but have to get some round bits. Thanks for the tutorial.
I'm so glad you found my video helpful! It really is a rewarding hobby... especially when you get to use things that would have otherwise sat in a box or gone to waste. Thanks for the heads up about PetSmart. I can send folks who inquire about bone to that store. It is my pleasure. Happy carving!! :)
It's been a year since I last watched this tutorial. In refreshing my memory I've been inspired to start a new project of my own. The little details are so important.
I just got a Maori triple swirl koru with abalone inlay bone necklace for my birthday from my wife. Best gift ever. Had to check out how it was made. Thanks for sharing.
Gorgeous piece! You are an excellent instructor. Your voice is pleasant to listen to and your speech pattern is very understandable. I love your character!
Awh! Thank you so very much! That is nice to know. For some reason, I get nervous when recording the voice-overs because I'm not fond of the sound of my voice... Glad to know folks don't share that opinion..lol. I hope I inspired you to try your hand at carving! :) Have fun!
I wanted to try making a bone knife. Loads of cattle around where I live and I asked if I could go to their carcass pit.... Wow! I was like a kid in a candy store lol. Had to walk 2 miles, but the reward was worth it. This is an inspiring video. I'll definitely be revisiting your channel.
Thank you so much! I have watched what feels like 100's of videos with bone carving, honestly yours has been the best! the links helped so much for finding the correct tools!
It is great to make new friends indeed! Thank you, however, my work could not possibly compare to the beautiful carvings of the Maori. I am humbled and awed by their work. If I am some day only a small percentage as skilled as they, I will feel accomplished. I have a lot to learn. Blessings to you!
Thank you for overcoming your insecurities!!! There are always going to be haters.Just be thankful that you don't have to reside in their heads,can you imagine how much they pick themselves apart 24/7? Just finding your channel,looking forward to learning alot. You go girl.💕
On foot pedals, there are a wide span of foot pedal qualities. When I started working as a bench jeweler, my superiors didn't realize how bad my pedal was. It was either accelerating up to full speed, or it was quickly decelerating. This is probably what people are talking about. When my mentor was trying to show me something at my desk one day he realized that my pedal wasn't variable speed and immediately bought me a new pedal (Grobet) things have been great since then.
Nice work, glad you recommended a dust mask. I personally dont think the mask you were using is adequate. Bone dust, abalone or paua shell dust is carcinogenic. Take great care working with this material.
Exceptionally well done video. I am new to carving and this was WAY more helpful than the other 100o videos I have seen, Great job. Please keep up the Great work. Rod
Thanks Rod! I'm glad that it was so helpful! I remember back when I was learning how to carve and it is true... there seems to be a lack of information... especially about the finer details like finish work and tool types.
Thanks so much for your help on techniques, materials and tools. Really clear and interesting. You have beautiful ideas and designs which shine through into your finished art.
Hi I,m coming from New Zealand and feel I must make a safety comment on your Excellent Video. A paper facemask is NOT sufficient if carving Paua as the kiwis call abalone. This is because it produces airborne fibres similar to Asbestos with the same highly dangerous effects. One tiny comment is your filigree curve is better known as a Koru in Maori carving having spiritual meaning of the unfolding of life . It comes from the opening of New growth shoots of the tree fern. You have probably already researched the Maori carvings and their meaning, being such a skilled craftsperson. If not I believe you would be fascinated by the meaning of simple staples. Once again Great Video keep up the good work ;-)
Hai girl, at my residence in east java Indonesia there are a lot of raw materials of cow bones, after seeing your shows I became interested in wanting to make the same craft as you, thanks for your knowledge, hopefully God will always bless you
After Many hours if watching bone carving tutorials, I have to tell you how much yours stand out. Both for basic strategies and how to design projects as well as equipment recommends/ possibilities and how to execute remarkable results if you just put in the time. I only do You Tube and maybe that's why I've only found this one bone carving tutorial from you? I've watched it a number of times and live the follow up with other of your pieces.
If I may make a suggestion? That piece specifically is beautiful. If it were me, I would add crushed azurite to the middle grooves you made and then fill it in with the CA glue. when polished, it'll really make those waves pop. Just a thought.
Omg this is amazing what a good idea, I've just started carving thought ide try wood and stone but now you have enspired me to try this thank you I'll keep you updated on how I get on lv Helen from the UK 🇬🇧 xx
I am greatly honored to hear this! Thank you! I have deep respect and admiration for the Māori! I could strive my whole life to gain as much skill as the masters and still never reach their level of craftsmanship.
Heatherfish Creations I have many friends back home who have done this art for a long time. I now live in the US and am looking to start. I really like the way you did the cord.
I can only imagine how neat it was to grow up around it all! It is such a rewarding art. I think you will enjoy it indeed! Thank you kindly... I have been practicing different lashing styles, and I will be demonstrating this one in the next carving video(that I am filming now). I look forward to seeing your work! You should make a video! :)
I recommend using a multi stage nail Emory block for polishing and sanding natural materials. when I carve bone or antler, I find they work well for being able to put a polish on the final product ( since basically they all are made up of the same material).
Black Box Theory Productions Thank you kindly for the advice :). However, I find that those clog up and wear out far too quickly for my needs. Also, wet sanding with them will wear them out even faster or make them fall apart, and I can never seem to get a brilliant mirror shine using them... nor can I easily sand inner curves or crevices.
Great video, just found your channel. Regarding the Alligator scute issue, I know you sounded averse to altering it chemically, BUT, I think resin impregnation would be the way to go to make it a carveable/workable medium. I would recommend either of these 2 methods. First, simply buy a can of Minwax wood hardener, and put enough of it in a jar with the item to cover it. Let it sit in the sealed jar until it looks like it has penetrated sufficiently (a day or 2), then remove and air dry till cured. Method 2 would be to order a product called Cactus Juice, which is a heat activated penetrating resin. For best penetration, a "pressure pot" or vacuum chamber would help, but again, patience and a sealed jar should do the trick. Once permeated, remove item, wipe off excess, and heat at 200 degrees for around 1 hour. I know this probably seems like alot of typing from a stranger, but as an artist myself, I know the value of sharing techniques when you have found a workaround to an issue! Keep up the great work!
Hi there. :) Thank you! Indeed you are right. I think that if I ever obtain my own alligator scute in the future, I will certainly use some sort of resin method for stabilizing it. Unfortunately, because this particular scute was not mine, I was hesitant to experiment on it. A pressure pot and air compressor are definitely on my "must obtain" list. Oh, the fun I would have making resin blanks! Thank you kindly for your great suggestions. I will most definitely write them down where I can find them again. Also, your flute skills are top notch. ;)
Love the video. I have a foredom and have played around with carving with it but I just seem to make a mess more than anything. Probably just need to get some better bits.
Thank you. :) Bits really do make a big difference! Especially if you are trying to use dull bits... that never works out well at all.Give it another try and have fun! :)
Awesome! When I very first started, I had tried using just the dremel 4000 I had... as is. I quickly realized that I couldn't support it for long periods of time and get the kind of movement and precision I needed because of the bulk and weight. When I switched over to using the flex shafts, it did indeed make all the difference in the world. Not sure if that is similar to your situation, but I can relate when it comes to having comfortable hand pieces... don't leave home without em...lol. Good luck and I hope it works out better for you this time.
Amazing video, i just started my own side business of the same artefacts getting them from a local guy i recently contacted. I would, however, want to learn how to make the same and right now i am inspired as i have always wanted to develop a skill outside my 8-5
Love this piece, stunning. Thank you for this tutorial. Will you be posting any tutorials on how you add the cord and finish with the clasps etc? Would love to see that as well! Thanks again, beautiful work!
Wow Heather you’re awesome I absolutely love what you’re doing with bone. I’m totally inspired & next on my list is a carving tool, thank you so much for the inspiration
Wow... This really made my day. Thank you! It was my hope that by making this, I would be able to inspire others to be creative. I'm always happy to know that I was successful! Happy carving!
I am kind of new to using a rotary tool in that I didn't know there are different sizes of collets. Is that what they are called? I have been using my rotary tool for drilling into bone but my bits are too small. I have been having to make adapters using tape. It works but would rather have proper tool for the job. I did have a bit fly out one time while under a vehicle not because of the adapter thing but because of vibration from the bearing in the rotary tool gone bad. Thank god for safety glasses or I would have lost an eye. Thanks for mentioning that. Wish I knew years ago.
Beautiful work! Can this same bone carving be done with one of the Foredom Micro Motor carvers, they have the motor in the hand piece and just a coiled wire going to the power supplier. Or is this bone carving best done with a Foredom shaft driven like you used on this piece?
Thank you for the suggestion... though I'd rather recycle organic material rather than put more plastic into the environment. I sometimes recycle resin blank cut-offs, but am not yet sure whether I want to explore the option of casting my own.
Yes. Sign your work. That is my ONLY criticism about mine. I wish whoever had made mine had put their mark on it. It’s incredible and should bear its makers mark.
I really enjoyed this video. It's very well put together and informative. I've been looking for videos like this. Subscribed and can't wait for the next one. Thank you!
Thank you very much! :) I've got lots more fun ideas planed for this year! Once I'm caught up with orders from this holiday rush, I will be actively working on all my new tutorials!
Thank you for your response! Looking forward to the new stuff! I went and watched it again, just awesome. I do have a question, if you don't mind...? Abalone inlay is very beautiful, but, would it be possible to inlay wood? Like teak or something similar? Thank you again, You're awesome and inspiring!!!
It's no problem at all. :) You could indeed inlay wood in much the same way. The only issues I have faced in the past when working with wood inlays are first, the wood is much softer than the bone. This makes it a little more tedious when doing your finish carving, because if you aren't careful, you can take of chunks of wood without realizing it while you are trying to trim down the bone beside it. Secondly, the wood finish was a challenge at first. I used to finish my wood to a mirror shine using CA Glue to cover the surface. This way I could sand and polish it right along with the bone and it would have the same finish. However, I learned that over time, it tended to yellow and chip away. It looked horrible. So, now I use a custom mixed finish called O.B. Shine Juice for my wood inlays. It is a recipe I learned from another youtuber( th-cam.com/users/capneddie ). With that finish, you can apply, sand, and repeat to your desired shine. I hope this answered your question! :) Thanks again for the kind words!
great job... i heard that bones smell bad because of the force of friction applied from the rotary machine... is that true? love what u did... amazing work
Can you give me an idea on how much your unit/kit cost? I looked on the website but couldn't find it. However, since this video is a few years ago, maybe they don't have the model you're using? Also, when first starting out, what would you recommend for a dremel tool or carving unit? Have you ever done any carving using deer sheds & if so, what is your opinion on ease of carving etc? Your video is great & so easy to follow. Thank you for sharing your skill with others. God bless!
Of course, it is my pleasure. :) There is a link to the foredom carver I'm using in the video description. As far as what you should use when first starting out, I really couldn't say. While a dremel will work, it is not easy on the hands and will wear out faster than a more expensive machine. I know there is another youtuber I watch( bobby duke arts) that uses a carving tool from harbor freight, though I'm not sure what the brand name is. He seems to like it, and it is likely cheaper than a foredom. I do indeed carve deer sheds, and I would say they are comparable to carving bone.
Where is a good place to obtain the abalone and bone materials for carving? I am a person whi as done some carving, but not extensive. Want to try and spend more time toward this craft. Thanks.
Hi I’m very interested in star working with bone mixing with wood and abalone and my question is what kind of kone bits are you using and if possible where I can buy this and others bits
Google translate didn't do the greatest job translating... but, I think you are inquiring about using water while carving bone. To answer your question, it creates a sticky paste that covers the bits. It's normal to use water while carving stone, but with bone, it's not something I would recommend. Additionally, bone is not near as hard on bits as stone materials, so water is not as necessary.
Nice work girl. Looks similar to New Zealand Maori designs. I do alot of bone carvings too, but on a larger scale. We use alot of Paua shells (abalone) and I use tooth paste to polish my pieces. One thing I most definitely do before I start on a bone is perform a karakia (prayer) to the animal for permission for working in a part of it's body and also another Karakia at the finish to give thanks and to request to protect the person who wears it on them. Just makes a little bit more sense. My Facebook details is Markus Tama. Thank you so much for showing your work. I thoroughly enjoyed each minute, its super awesome to see females endeavoring in this art and appreciate your knowledge and skills. 🤟😎🌹
When I was young my grandfather TAUGHT me how to prepare bone and taught me how to draw and to learn the Meanings of every pattern and that your first bone pendant/taonga sorry for my pronunciation my te reo is not that good so yeah he always started to me that your first bone pendant has to be gifted To a loved one or a close relative or friend
![เปิดบ้าน โคตรสวย ป๋องกพล รู้จักตั้งนาน เพิ่งรู้ว่ารวย!!! l [Nickynachat]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/tmgCF_2HfYI/mqdefault.jpg)
Hi, where do you get the bone? Thanks
Hi Seth :) I get my bone from family farm cows that have died of old age or natural causes. I like to process and degrease it on my own because I can whiten it organically without harsh chemicals. Most farms have a "bone yard", and it doesn't hurt to ask if you can pick through it. However, if that isn't and option for you, you might also be able to get bone from local butcher shops, or pet supply stores.
Some folks don't like getting bone from pet stores because they say it is more brittle and flaky than home processed bone... but this has not been my experience. I have bought it from the pet store a few times when I'm in a pinch, and it was perfectly carvable... Admittedly, however, I don't normally buy it processed like that due to personal preference(I like to know where the bone comes from and how the cows lived).
If you want to process your own bone, this video by Antipodart santi is pretty close to how I do it. The only exception is I put some dawn dish detergent in the boiling water, I use an electric band saw instead of a manual saw, and after it is degreased and cleaned, I let my bone sit outside in an open tub full of a white vinegar and water solution for up to 2 weeks: th-cam.com/video/khpcOGZxHec/w-d-xo.html
Hope this helps! :)
Awesome! Thanks Heather, looks like I have a trip to the pet store in the near future, until I can source a proper butchers.
Seth Spriggs Yes, that was going to be my first question. 😂
Seth Spriggs ya find it lol. There’s a ton where I live
Thanks for doing these vids!
I've watched many videos on stone and bone carving..for some reason yours is the easiest to follow and you don't bore me,thanks sister look forward to watching more of your videos, blessings and thanks for being
I just found your channel, and I see that you haven't posted in a few years so I don't know if you'll ever see this comment but I need you to know I seriously love your energy. You seem so kind and down to earth, your videos are very detailed but at the same time simple enough that I don't get confused or bored. I'm going to binge all your videos now!! I hope someday you return to youtube!
This is such a kind comment! Thank you. :) I'm glad you are enjoying my videos. Maybe I will return someday.
☮ I'm glad I happened upon your tutorial. As a carpenter/builder living in the Yosemite region, I find so many interesting natural, organic, even some man made items in the streams flowing through my place. Jade, bone, crystals, native artifacts (which never leave the property) driftwood, quartz and all type of stone. In my search for a way to enjoy more artistic endeavors using beautiful naturally sourced items from my glen I find I've been searching plenty of online content. I just want to say that I found your video (you) to be so easy to understand, well spoken, very knowledgeable while moving through the sequences at the right pace and giving great info but not too much....like I am in my comment. Thanks for teaching an established craftsman some new tricks.
Wow! This is the first time I've seen anyone carve in this material. It's so beautiful.
I do antler carving and use a 4300 dremel that has a dial up speed on the tail end of the machine, works well for me, use wet & dry sandpaper always make sure it is wet and above all take my time not rush anything as I am wheelchair bound so have heaps of time, PS just made 2 rings today
Wow so labour intensive ! Now i get why they are so expensive...totally worth it though 💖
Please tell me you have a good particle respirator now!!??? Bone dust is absolutely awful in any amount in your lungs and sinuses. You are a fantastic artist and I want you around teaching this stuff forever!
Well done on a fantastic job..Im from New Zealand (Maori) where we wear traditional bone carvings much like yours..
I'm a beginner as far as bone carving, but with the help of your video I've improved a lot. I use Dremel tools with dental bits my dentist saves for me. Since I repaired and restored fretted and stringed instruments for years I had a bunch of bone, pearl, and abalone in my scrap box. Now I've found a great way to recycle it. I get my bone from PetSmart which gives me enough clean bone for a bunch of projects. I don't sell my stuff. I usually give it to friends for birthdays, or as Christmas gifts. It's a great hobby, and the more I do the better I get. Practice, practice, practice. Have straight bits and conical bits, but have to get some round bits. Thanks for the tutorial.
I'm so glad you found my video helpful! It really is a rewarding hobby... especially when you get to use things that would have otherwise sat in a box or gone to waste. Thanks for the heads up about PetSmart. I can send folks who inquire about bone to that store. It is my pleasure. Happy carving!! :)
Danke. Sehr schönes Ergebnis.
Und was für mich noch wichtiger ist: sehr gute Erklärungen!
Vielen Dank dafür.
As a newbie Heathers video is the best one I have seen so far in this journey of mine thank you so much Heather for sharing.
Thank you kindly Nancy! You are very welcome. Happy carving!
It's been a year since I last watched this tutorial. In refreshing my memory I've been inspired to start a new project of my own. The little details are so important.
I just got a Maori triple swirl koru with abalone inlay bone necklace for my birthday from my wife. Best gift ever. Had to check out how it was made. Thanks for sharing.
Gorgeous piece! You are an excellent instructor. Your voice is pleasant to listen to and your speech pattern is very understandable. I love your character!
Awh! Thank you so very much! That is nice to know. For some reason, I get nervous when recording the voice-overs because I'm not fond of the sound of my voice... Glad to know folks don't share that opinion..lol. I hope I inspired you to try your hand at carving! :) Have fun!
I wanted to try making a bone knife. Loads of cattle around where I live and I asked if I could go to their carcass pit.... Wow! I was like a kid in a candy store lol. Had to walk 2 miles, but the reward was worth it. This is an inspiring video. I'll definitely be revisiting your channel.
Thank you so much! I have watched what feels like 100's of videos with bone carving, honestly yours has been the best! the links helped so much for finding the correct tools!
You are so very welcome! Thank you! I am glad I was able to help! :)
Ataahua to mahi e hoa
Aroha from New Zealand love that your carrying over our traditions to your home land
It is great to make new friends indeed! Thank you, however, my work could not possibly compare to the beautiful carvings of the Maori. I am humbled and awed by their work. If I am some day only a small percentage as skilled as they, I will feel accomplished. I have a lot to learn. Blessings to you!
And Hawaii Nei! www.honolulumagazine.com/core/pagetools.php?pageid=7161&url=/honolulu-magazine/march-2004/makau-hawaiian-fishhooks/&mode=print
What a superb little creation you made. Thank you for a worthwhile tutorial. A master bone carver.
Thank you for overcoming your insecurities!!!
There are always going to be haters.Just be thankful that you don't have to reside in their heads,can you imagine how much they pick themselves apart 24/7?
Just finding your channel,looking forward to learning alot.
You go girl.💕
On foot pedals, there are a wide span of foot pedal qualities. When I started working as a bench jeweler, my superiors didn't realize how bad my pedal was. It was either accelerating up to full speed, or it was quickly decelerating. This is probably what people are talking about. When my mentor was trying to show me something at my desk one day he realized that my pedal wasn't variable speed and immediately bought me a new pedal (Grobet) things have been great since then.
Nice work, glad you recommended a dust mask. I personally dont think the mask you were using is adequate. Bone dust, abalone or paua shell dust is carcinogenic. Take great care working with this material.
Agreed. A respirator that filters lead paint is what I use. Dust mask doesn't do the trick when your using a belt sander and band saw.
Right on!!! Lovely! Very useful I will use a lot of your techniques making my own! Thank you❤
Exceptionally well done video. I am new to carving and this was WAY more helpful than the other 100o videos I have seen, Great job. Please keep up the Great work.
Rod
Thanks Rod! I'm glad that it was so helpful! I remember back when I was learning how to carve and it is true... there seems to be a lack of information... especially about the finer details like finish work and tool types.
Thanks so much for your help on techniques, materials and tools. Really clear and interesting. You have beautiful ideas and designs which shine through into your finished art.
Thank you for the kind words Nina! I try my best! Hopefully I was able to inspire you to get creative. :)
Now that's not something you see everyday, AMAZING
Hi I,m coming from New Zealand and feel I must make a safety comment on your Excellent Video. A paper facemask is NOT sufficient if carving Paua as the kiwis call abalone. This is because it produces airborne fibres similar to Asbestos with the same highly dangerous effects.
One tiny comment is your filigree curve is better known as a Koru in Maori carving having spiritual meaning of the unfolding of life . It comes from the opening of New growth shoots of the tree fern.
You have probably already researched the Maori carvings and their meaning, being such a skilled craftsperson. If not I believe you would be fascinated by the meaning of simple staples.
Once again Great Video keep up the good work ;-)
Hai girl, at my residence in east java Indonesia there are a lot of raw materials of cow bones, after seeing your shows I became interested in wanting to make the same craft as you, thanks for your knowledge, hopefully God will always bless you
how beautiful, i just found you looking for deer carving pendant...this/your work is beautiful man, subscribed big love !!! x
WOW! Freaking awesome work. I really liked your instructional style and your humbleness. Keep up the great videos.
Beautiful work, and explained very well. I really enjoyed watching this, you are a master craftsman!
Thank you so much! I don't know about the master craftsman part... but I appreciate the compliment! :)
After Many hours if watching bone carving tutorials, I have to tell you how much yours stand out. Both for basic strategies and how to design projects as well as equipment recommends/ possibilities and how to execute remarkable results if you just put in the time.
I only do You Tube and maybe that's why I've only found this one bone carving tutorial from you? I've watched it a number of times and live the follow up with other of your pieces.
If I may make a suggestion? That piece specifically is beautiful. If it were me, I would add crushed azurite to the middle grooves you made and then fill it in with the CA glue. when polished, it'll really make those waves pop.
Just a thought.
Omg this is amazing what a good idea, I've just started carving thought ide try wood and stone but now you have enspired me to try this thank you I'll keep you updated on how I get on lv Helen from the UK 🇬🇧 xx
Sure wish you would do more bone carving tutorials. Learned a lot from you.
Heather this is a great, very helpful video. Thank you for sharing yourself with us.
I do wish you had included how you cut and shaped the shell inlay before glueing! I find it all fascinating. Amazing work though!
you are the absolute best miss Fish. very good in explaining & your talent is just great!. muchos thanks!
Hi Heather,
I watched you make the pendant and I like you attitude and technique. Well done!
Michael Dillon Thank you kindly! :)
Kia Ora Heather. Nice work! You capture the artistry of my homeland very well. Good for you. Ka pai!
I am greatly honored to hear this! Thank you! I have deep respect and admiration for the Māori! I could strive my whole life to gain as much skill as the masters and still never reach their level of craftsmanship.
Heatherfish Creations I have many friends back home who have done this art for a long time. I now live in the US and am looking to start. I really like the way you did the cord.
I can only imagine how neat it was to grow up around it all! It is such a rewarding art. I think you will enjoy it indeed! Thank you kindly... I have been practicing different lashing styles, and I will be demonstrating this one in the next carving video(that I am filming now). I look forward to seeing your work! You should make a video! :)
ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL WORK!!!! YOU ARE TRULY TALENTED!!! THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR CREATIONS!!! STAY SAFE AND STRONG!!!
Thank you kindly!
Hello , Everything you seem to make has a sense of drama to it !!! very nice !!!
fabulous ....thankyou from Queensland ...your extremely patient x
I love your designs, and the learning format for others.
Thank you! :) I aim to please.
I recommend using a multi stage nail Emory block for polishing and sanding natural materials. when I carve bone or antler, I find they work well for being able to put a polish on the final product ( since basically they all are made up of the same material).
Black Box Theory Productions Thank you kindly for the advice :). However, I find that those clog up and wear out far too quickly for my needs. Also, wet sanding with them will wear them out even faster or make them fall apart, and I can never seem to get a brilliant mirror shine using them... nor can I easily sand inner curves or crevices.
Great video, just found your channel. Regarding the Alligator scute issue, I know you sounded averse to altering it chemically, BUT, I think resin impregnation would be the way to go to make it a carveable/workable medium. I would recommend either of these 2 methods. First, simply buy a can of Minwax wood hardener, and put enough of it in a jar with the item to cover it. Let it sit in the sealed jar until it looks like it has penetrated sufficiently (a day or 2), then remove and air dry till cured. Method 2 would be to order a product called Cactus Juice, which is a heat activated penetrating resin. For best penetration, a "pressure pot" or vacuum chamber would help, but again, patience and a sealed jar should do the trick. Once permeated, remove item, wipe off excess, and heat at 200 degrees for around 1 hour. I know this probably seems like alot of typing from a stranger, but as an artist myself, I know the value of sharing techniques when you have found a workaround to an issue! Keep up the great work!
Hi there. :) Thank you! Indeed you are right. I think that if I ever obtain my own alligator scute in the future, I will certainly use some sort of resin method for stabilizing it. Unfortunately, because this particular scute was not mine, I was hesitant to experiment on it. A pressure pot and air compressor are definitely on my "must obtain" list. Oh, the fun I would have making resin blanks! Thank you kindly for your great suggestions. I will most definitely write them down where I can find them again. Also, your flute skills are top notch. ;)
I love the video. New at carving using the rotary tool. After watching you i am positive that i will manage to make some great pendants
very educational!!! thank you Heather for sharing your knowledge
Love the video. I have a foredom and have played around with carving with it but I just seem to make a mess more than anything. Probably just need to get some better bits.
Thank you. :) Bits really do make a big difference! Especially if you are trying to use dull bits... that never works out well at all.Give it another try and have fun! :)
I picked up a smaller handpeice and am going to give it another whirl
Awesome! When I very first started, I had tried using just the dremel 4000 I had... as is. I quickly realized that I couldn't support it for long periods of time and get the kind of movement and precision I needed because of the bulk and weight. When I switched over to using the flex shafts, it did indeed make all the difference in the world. Not sure if that is similar to your situation, but I can relate when it comes to having comfortable hand pieces... don't leave home without em...lol. Good luck and I hope it works out better for you this time.
Ahh I can just smell that lovely stench! Nice work.
All I can say is wow thank you so much for sharing that with us
Wow! Looks like fun. great video. Thanks.
Love all your designs and patterns and you explain each step nicely. I will learn alot from your videos, thank you very much. I subscribed 🇳🇿👍🏼😁
Girl, this is SOOOOO COOL :-Great work darling, love from Melbourne Australia xx
Lovely piece, thankyou for sharing 😊
Time I got the dremel out!😁
Amazing video, i just started my own side business of the same artefacts getting them from a local guy i recently contacted. I would, however, want to learn how to make the same and right now i am inspired as i have always wanted to develop a skill outside my 8-5
Love this piece, stunning. Thank you for this tutorial. Will you be posting any tutorials on how you add the cord and finish with the clasps etc? Would love to see that as well! Thanks again, beautiful work!
Wow Heather you’re awesome I absolutely love what you’re doing with bone. I’m totally inspired & next on my list is a carving tool, thank you so much for the inspiration
Wow... This really made my day. Thank you! It was my hope that by making this, I would be able to inspire others to be creative. I'm always happy to know that I was successful! Happy carving!
I am kind of new to using a rotary tool in that I didn't know there are different sizes of collets. Is that what they are called? I have been using my rotary tool for drilling into bone but my bits are too small. I have been having to make adapters using tape. It works but would rather have proper tool for the job. I did have a bit fly out one time while under a vehicle not because of the adapter thing but because of vibration from the bearing in the rotary tool gone bad. Thank god for safety glasses or I would have lost an eye. Thanks for mentioning that. Wish I knew years ago.
Beautiful! I love it! -Jaylena
Beautiful piece, you do fine work
Stunning work, thank you for taking the time to share your time.
I just started carving and this is amazing! Love it!
I'm glad you liked it! Happy carving! :)
Great! Thanks a lot for this very helpful tutorial.
This was a nice job. I like the tip for the necklace beautiful.
omg!!! i love this! very well done! i would love to buy some and make necklaces out of them
Beautiful work! Can this same bone carving be done with one of the Foredom Micro Motor carvers, they have the motor in the hand piece and just a coiled wire going to the power supplier. Or is this bone carving best done with a Foredom shaft driven like you used on this piece?
Great informative video, if you're Vegan you can also make authentic looking faux bone from resin and you can carve just about anything from it.
Thank you for the suggestion... though I'd rather recycle organic material rather than put more plastic into the environment. I sometimes recycle resin blank cut-offs, but am not yet sure whether I want to explore the option of casting my own.
thanks and i would like to see your whipping and how you do the ends
I will see about putting together a video about that for you! :) Thank you for the request.
Nice work and good explanation.
thank you for helping us learn how to . thanks.
Yes. Sign your work. That is my ONLY criticism about mine. I wish whoever had made mine had put their mark on it. It’s incredible and should bear its makers mark.
Your work and video is very nice and I wonder what kind of glue do you recommend
Hi, you are a wonderful person. tell me please what sander you use. What grade of stone and what are the parameters of this machine, I mean speed
I really enjoyed this video. It's very well put together and informative. I've been looking for videos like this. Subscribed and can't wait for the next one. Thank you!
Thank you very much! :) I've got lots more fun ideas planed for this year! Once I'm caught up with orders from this holiday rush, I will be actively working on all my new tutorials!
Thank you for your response! Looking forward to the new stuff! I went and watched it again, just awesome. I do have a question, if you don't mind...? Abalone inlay is very beautiful, but, would it be possible to inlay wood? Like teak or something similar? Thank you again, You're awesome and inspiring!!!
It's no problem at all. :)
You could indeed inlay wood in much the same way. The only issues I have faced in the past when working with wood inlays are first, the wood is much softer than the bone. This makes it a little more tedious when doing your finish carving, because if you aren't careful, you can take of chunks of wood without realizing it while you are trying to trim down the bone beside it.
Secondly, the wood finish was a challenge at first. I used to finish my wood to a mirror shine using CA Glue to cover the surface. This way I could sand and polish it right along with the bone and it would have the same finish. However, I learned that over time, it tended to yellow and chip away. It looked horrible. So, now I use a custom mixed finish called O.B. Shine Juice for my wood inlays. It is a recipe I learned from another youtuber( th-cam.com/users/capneddie ). With that finish, you can apply, sand, and repeat to your desired shine.
I hope this answered your question! :) Thanks again for the kind words!
I bet this hobby really scratches the nail tech itch
Love your video, good amount of detail
Very nice work. Thank you for taking the time to do the tutorial.
Thank you! You are very welcome. :)
great job... i heard that bones smell bad because of the force of friction applied from the rotary machine... is that true? love what u did... amazing work
Can you give me an idea on how much your unit/kit cost? I looked on the website but couldn't find it. However, since this video is a few years ago, maybe they don't have the model you're using? Also, when first starting out, what would you recommend for a dremel tool or carving unit? Have you ever done any carving using deer sheds & if so, what is your opinion on ease of carving etc? Your video is great & so easy to follow. Thank you for sharing your skill with others. God bless!
Of course, it is my pleasure. :) There is a link to the foredom carver I'm using in the video description. As far as what you should use when first starting out, I really couldn't say. While a dremel will work, it is not easy on the hands and will wear out faster than a more expensive machine. I know there is another youtuber I watch( bobby duke arts) that uses a carving tool from harbor freight, though I'm not sure what the brand name is. He seems to like it, and it is likely cheaper than a foredom. I do indeed carve deer sheds, and I would say they are comparable to carving bone.
Thanks...nicely presented Heather
Excellent tutorial. Aloha from Hawaii!
Our dentist burrs good on bone carving,nice pendant
In stead of tape on a vice I use wood. Because it’s soft and doesn’t put to much pressure on the piece
Beautiful work!
Beautiful job! But how did you attach the necklace to it?
Awesome Job!! Great video.... very detailed!
Thank you! :)
Very nice video and tutorials, thanks a lot for sharing :) Love it
Wow! So much work put to it!
Where is a good place to obtain the abalone and bone materials for carving? I am a person whi as done some carving, but not extensive. Want to try and spend more time toward this craft. Thanks.
hola soy de argentina y queria saber si podes hacer un video de como hacer el nudo que hiciste en este video, muchas gracias
Hi I’m very interested in star working with bone mixing with wood and abalone and my question is what kind of kone bits are you using and if possible where I can buy this and others bits
My new teacher 😁
great video Heather
zachary martin Thank you. :)
Hi, questions, por qué no utilizas agua para enfriar tus herramientas , no se queman tus puntas de tallar?
Google translate didn't do the greatest job translating... but, I think you are inquiring about using water while carving bone. To answer your question, it creates a sticky paste that covers the bits. It's normal to use water while carving stone, but with bone, it's not something I would recommend. Additionally, bone is not near as hard on bits as stone materials, so water is not as necessary.
Wow a beautiful piece of art ur so talented
Gavin cheddar Parker Thank you! :)
what tool do you use please i need to know for my hard tech thanks. 😁
Nice work girl. Looks similar to New Zealand Maori designs. I do alot of bone carvings too, but on a larger scale. We use alot of Paua shells (abalone) and I use tooth paste to polish my pieces. One thing I most definitely do before I start on a bone is perform a karakia (prayer) to the animal for permission for working in a part of it's body and also another Karakia at the finish to give thanks and to request to protect the person who wears it on them. Just makes a little bit more sense. My Facebook details is Markus Tama.
Thank you so much for showing your work. I thoroughly enjoyed each minute, its super awesome to see females endeavoring in this art and appreciate your knowledge and skills. 🤟😎🌹
When I was young my grandfather
TAUGHT me how to prepare bone and taught me how to draw and to learn the
Meanings of every pattern and that your first bone pendant/taonga sorry for my pronunciation my te reo is not that good
so yeah he always started to me that your first bone pendant has to be gifted
To a loved one or a close relative or friend
Ae, ka tika to korero, nga mihi.
Are you using a foredom 28 hand piece?