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 on the pendant. 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. Archival wax is added to create a lovely sheen and to protect the etched image.
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 the amount of sanding that is needed for each piece of ivory.
The scrimshaw is water-resistant but not waterproof, so of course do not wear these while you bathe, or when you get your hair cut, or while around a pool or lake!
These will be lovingly and very carefully packed in protective wrap and tissue paper, tied with a pretty ribbon, and placed inside a pretty organza bag. Then it's all sealed safely inside a bubble-wrap envelope to ensure safe delivery to your door.
Have any questions?
Contact the shop owner.
