What material is alternative ivory made out of? I just turned a pen using it and as I've read about, it was chipping a lot. I decided to see if I could use sand paper to turn it down. Thought that might be easier, but that was to slow. I noticed though that when I went back to my chisel the alternative ivory had heated up and was turning great, like butter. I'm think about doing that from here on out, but I was wondering if it is ok to do that, or will heating it up with sand paper and then using a chisel to turn it cause some unforseen problems?
What is Alternative Ivory made out of?
- Thread starter les-smith
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JimGo
Member
I've seen acrylic-like materials called Alternative Ivory and I've heart Tagua nuts called that as well. To which are you referring? The answer may vary depending on to which material you are referring.
gerryr
Member
The big question, since you got it from CSUSA, is did you follow their instructions about turning speed? If you did, that is your problem. I tried it at their recommended speed and had a disaster. It turned just fine when I increased the speed on my lathe to around 2400 rpm, or whatever the second highest speed on a 6-speed Jet Mini is. Lou says he turns the stuff at the highest speed.
Mach-2 with my hair on fire! [8D]
Ligget
Member
I just turned the same stuff, 3500 rpm with a very sharp skew worked for me.
Be gentle though
]
Be gentle though![
]Russb
Member
I hesitate to say use sharp tools because I've never heard anyone suggest dull tools. Proper tool technique is very important. When using a gouge bevel rubbing is very important. Heating up the material is not proper technique. When proper technique is used the chipping should give way to shavings.
DocStram
Member
I turn it fast .... one notch below "Fright". (An old woodturner's joke)
byounghusband
Member
Lou said,
So that IS a toupee!!![:0][B)]
So that IS a toupee!!![:0][B)]
MesquiteMan
Retired Head Moderator
Alternate elephant tusks![
] Sorry, couldn't resist!- Status