Shedding antlers

[Callynne]

* * I talked to the man who bought my little four point buck carving, his Grandson got hold of it and broke off an antler. *I know, repairing broken carvings isn't something you probably have to do but he is a good friend so....BUMMER! *I told my husband I was dreading having to carve another antler and he smiled a wicked smile and said 'hey, deer are shedding antlers now, just knock the other one off and give it back to him! * I'm tempted!!
* * Then he smiled even more wickedly and said 'actually, you should knock the other one off and make him a six point, there's more points after they shed them'. * *So....I'm going to do it and try a couple different approaches. *I think if I start with a rounded piece of wood (got that idea from talking about those tagua nuts) they might be easier to carve.
* * Might even try some polymer clay molded to wire....is that 'legit' for a wood carving?? *Just wondering...I'll let you know what works the best. *Callynne

[FatEddy]

I'd say that under the circumstances anything is legit, including making the buck a doe.

[AlArchie]

I don't think ya should do that unless you are a very good veterinarian!

Al

Callynne,
Try using QuickWood a type of wood repair epoxy. This is a two part epoxy that that looks like two tone clay. Cut off the amount you need, blend it together by rolling it in you hand to mix it. You have about a 1/2 hour to shape it before it starts to harden. It can be carved even after it is completely hard.


You could even use this stuff to put the old antler back on .

Good luck

Woody01

[FINGERS]

Try cuttin out your six pointer, Before you do detail cutting cover it with quick set glue that railroad hobbist use. It super thin, soaks into the wood keeping small pieces from breaking so ease and can be wittled / sanded to shape.

[Callynne]

* * Nope, not a vet but I am getting pretty wicked with a knife! * *
* * Woody I'll have to try some of that Quick Wood, wonder if they will have any locally or if I'll have to order it. *I'll call my buddy at True Value and check there first. *Reattaching the broken one was my first thought, only they can't find it. *
* * I use a product called Miracle Wood (from True Value), it works great but it has a lumpy, gritty texture. *It's great for filling cracks or making repairs that you can sand. *It will take a bit of woodburning also. *Sounds like the Quick Wood might work even better.
* * Fingers, thanks for the glue advice, I have used super glue to harden antlers, is it like that? *I don't think you can carve the super glue though. *If this stuff is better I'll definitely be getting some of it. *Thanks again guys, Callynne
* *

[AlArchie]

In regards to that super glue stuff.......Minwax makes a liquid, one step application wood hardner. Comes in a pint can for about 8 bucks at TruValue hardware. don't know what it costs elswhere, but it must be available anywhere Minwax is sold.

It works great for toughening up thin carvings like fish fins, and also does great if you have a large piece with any punky spots, as long as they are not rotten. I've used it for both purposes and it can be carved after use.

Al

You can get QuickWood at at a Woodcraft Store.
There are stores in Pennsylvania. I think I have seen some at Ace Hardware also.
Once you see how easy it is to work with you will find many ways to use it.

Woody01

[Callynne]

* * Thanks for the help guys, I'm not dreading doing those antlers as much!! *Just would rather be carving something else....or at least have them be reindeer antlers!!! * Callynne

[FatEddy]

I've got a set of real ones out in the garage, you could glue them on.