Please note that ALL my scrimshaw designs are ONE OF A KIND. Other scrimshaw artists use the same design over and over, most likely using a transfer process instead of a hand-drawn design. If you are interested in owning something that no one else will ever own, you have come to the right place at KneeDeepOriginals.
The process: Each piano key must be sanded smooth to remove all the grime and oils and rough surface. After sanding, I sketch out my design and when satisfied, I use a magnifying tool which allows me to see and etch more details in the etching. A very sharp-edged tool is used to scratch the surface of the ivory, enabling the design to take shape. Then I ink in the design, sand again to remove the excess ink, and voila... new life from old. Then a hole is drilled using a very small hand drill and findings are attached. Finally, archival wax is applied to help protect the image and to provide a satiny sheen to the ivory.
Please note that each piano key is a little different, and every piece created from them is original and one-of-a-kind. I try to maintain the vintage appeal in various aspects: by allowing the chips on the edges to become a part of the jewelry; by keeping the yellowed appearance as much as possible; by leaving a part of the fabric on the back that once helped to hold the ivory in place over the wooden part of the key. Many of these things are decided by how easily the keys were removed and the amount of sanding that is needed for each piece of ivory.
As with any jewelry, do not wear this necklace while you bathe or swim as exposure to water may damage the etching and the ivory.
This necklace will be lovingly and very carefully carefully packed in a gift box or organza bag, tied with a pretty ribbon, and sealed safely inside a bubble-wrap envelope to ensure safe delivery to your door. Shipping within the continental U.S. includes insurance. Other areas, please convo me if you'd like insurance added to your purchase.
Have any questions?
Contact the shop owner.
