How to Make Ethical Scrimshaw with Sustainable Ivory Substitutes – A Step‑by‑Step DIY Guide

If you’ve ever stared at a beautiful piece of scrimshaw and felt a pang of guilt because the material comes from real ivory, you’re not alone. The good news is that you can still enjoy the delicate art of engraving without harming animals. Here at Modern Scrimshaw we’re all about keeping the craft alive while staying true to our values. Below is a simple, down‑to‑earth guide that walks you through everything you need to start making ethical scrimshaw at home.

Why Ethical Scrimshaw Matters Right Now

The world is waking up to the impact of wildlife trade. Laws are getting stricter, and more artists are looking for alternatives that respect both the art and the planet. By choosing a sustainable substitute, you’re joining a growing community that cares about the future of both art and nature. Plus, using reclaimed or plant‑based materials can actually make your work stand out – collectors love a good story behind a piece.

What You’ll Need – The Basics

1. A Good Ivory Substitute

• Bone from reclaimed sources – old animal bones that would otherwise be waste. Look for “farm‑by‑product” bone at a local butcher or a specialty craft shop.
• Mammoth ivory – legally sourced from fossils, not from living elephants. It’s a bit pricier but has the same feel as real ivory.
• Plant‑based resin blocks – these are made from sustainable polymers and can be sanded to a smooth finish. They’re cheap and come in a variety of colors.

Pick the one that feels right for your budget and style. I started with reclaimed bone because it was free from my friend’s farm, and it gave me a nice, warm tone.

2. Tools

• Sharp steel needles or fine engraving tools – a set of different sizes lets you vary line thickness.
• A small hand drill (optional) – for making starter holes in thicker blocks.
• Sandpaper – start with 120 grit, finish with 400 grit for a smooth surface.
• A soft cloth – for wiping away dust.

3. Ink or Stain

Traditional scrimshaw uses soot mixed with water. You can make a simple ink by mixing charcoal powder with a little water until it’s the consistency of thick coffee. If you prefer color, try natural dyes like beet juice or walnut husk extract.

Preparing Your Substitute

Step 1: Clean the Surface

Give your bone, mammoth ivory, or resin a quick rinse with warm water. Pat it dry with the soft cloth. If you’re using a bone, a quick dip in diluted hydrogen peroxide (1%) helps remove any leftover flesh or smell. Rinse again and let it air dry.

Step 2: Shape It

Use a small saw or a rotary tool to cut the block to the size you want. A common size for a pocket‑sized piece is about 3 × 2 inches. Sand the edges with 120 grit, then move to 400 grit for a silky finish. The smoother the surface, the easier the engraving.

Step 3: Mark Your Design

Grab a pencil or a fine‑tip marker and sketch your design lightly. I like to start with simple nautical motifs – a tiny ship, a compass rose, or a wave. Keep the lines loose; you’ll refine them with the needle later. If you’re nervous about making a mistake, trace a printed image onto tracing paper, then transfer it with carbon paper.

Engraving – The Heart of Scrimshaw

Step 1: Secure the Piece

Place your prepared block on a sturdy surface. I use a small wooden board with a rubber mat underneath so the piece doesn’t slip.

Step 2: Start Light

Begin with the thinnest needle. Hold it like a pen, not like a screwdriver. Press gently and let the tip do the work. A light touch creates fine lines that look delicate when you fill them with ink later. If the needle feels dull, sharpen it with a fine file – a sharp tip makes a huge difference.

Step 3: Vary Line Weight

Switch to a thicker needle for bold outlines or shading. The contrast between thin and thick lines gives your piece depth. Think of it like drawing with a pencil: you can press harder for dark strokes and lighter for faint ones.

Step 4: Take Breaks

Engraving can be meditative, but it’s also easy to get sore hands. Every 15‑20 minutes, stretch your fingers and shake out the block. This keeps the lines clean and prevents accidental slips.

Adding Ink – The Finishing Touch

Step 1: Apply Ink

Using a soft brush, dab a thin layer of your charcoal‑water mix over the engraved lines. The ink will settle into the grooves, leaving the raised surface clean. If you’re using a natural dye, the same method works – just be aware that some dyes may stain the surrounding area a little.

Step 2: Wipe the Surface

After a few seconds, gently wipe the surface with a clean cloth. The ink stays in the cuts, while the rest of the block looks like new. This step is where the magic happens – the contrast makes the design pop.

Step 3: Seal (Optional)

If you want extra protection, spray a light coat of clear matte sealant. This helps the ink stay in place and protects the piece from fingerprints. I usually skip the sealant for small pocket pieces because the natural oil in the bone keeps it looking warm.

Caring for Your Ethical Scrimshaw

• Store in a dry place – humidity can cause some resin blocks to warp.
• Avoid direct sunlight – prolonged exposure can fade natural dyes.
• Handle with clean hands – oils from skin can dull the surface over time.

A simple polishing with a soft cloth every few months brings back the shine without any harsh chemicals.

My First Ethical Scrimshaw Piece – A Quick Story

When I first tried this guide, I used a reclaimed cow bone I got from my neighbor’s farm. I sketched a tiny sea turtle and spent an afternoon engraving it while listening to old sea shanties. The ink filled the lines perfectly, and the final piece looked just as good as any traditional ivory work I’d seen in museums. The best part? I could tell anyone who asked that it was made from a material that never harmed an elephant. That feeling of pride is why I keep sharing these tips on Modern Scrimshaw.

Wrap‑Up: Your Turn to Create

You don’t need a fancy studio or expensive supplies to make beautiful, ethical scrimshaw. With a sustainable ivory substitute, a few basic tools, and a bit of patience, you can craft pieces that honor both the tradition and the planet. Keep experimenting with different designs, try new natural dyes, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Modern Scrimshaw is all about keeping the craft alive in a way that feels right for today’s world.