Alligator Jaw

[yorkie]

About to make a few Alligator jaw pens from blanks I bought from EB.

Advice on turning Alligator jaw? I know not to breathe it in but any other advice before I begin? How is it to turn?

 

[bobjackson]

It's a little stinky, but not bad. I turn with light cuts with sharp chisels. I actually use my pen pro and it works great.

 

[Akula]

as said, light cuts with very sharp tools

I put a CA finish on mine because the bone could collect dirt/oils from peoples hands. Think I have done around 15 in the last couple months. Just don't rush and you will be fine

 

[yorkie]

Thanks, guys.

 

[WildThings]

when you get down close to the final size - soak the exposed bone in CA to help keep it from having a possible blowout

 

[tkbarron]

Hey Yorkie,

I've been super busy the past few weeks with my real world job and just now caught your post.

The advice given by the other guys is spot on. Below are some additional thoughts in no particular order.

1. Take light cuts and use very sharp tools, preferably carbide.
2. Douse the bone with thin CA a few times as you turn the blanks to size. This will fill any tiny voids in the bone that the resin can't reach.
3. Wear a good respirator to avoid breathing any dust. This will also help with the smell. Chew mint gum, preferably sugarless.
4. Reverse paint the blanks with a color of choice. There should be no need to paint the tubes. Let dry overnight.
5. Use thick CA or epoxy to glue in the tubes. I prefer CA and have had zero issues.
6. Drill the blanks dead center. They have been cast with that in mind.
7. Use 10-20 coats of CA, then wet sand and polish for a mirror finish.


Happy turning and post some pics!

Tom

 

[yorkie]

Thanks for all the advice, guys. Here's how they turned out.