How to Make Antler Pulls

Deer antlers can become deocrative pulls for drawers, doors and cabinets

People have used deer antlers to create both decorative and functional items for centuries. Today, antlers give a rustic look to homes, cabins and lodges in the form of antler lamps, chandeliers, sconces and other crafts. Antler pulls also give a nice touch to cabinets, drawers or door handles. Relatively easy to make,these attractive accessories bring a touch of the outdoors into any home.

Things You'll Need

• Band saw
• Sander
• 80-grit sandpaper
• Drill
• Drill bit
• 8-32 threaded rods
• 2-part epoxy
• Nuts

Instructions

1. Find an antler with a curve about the width you desire for your drawer pull. Antler sizes and shapes vary considerably, so you may have to weed through several to find one that works.

2. Cut off a chunk of antler the size, shape and correct curve for your drawer pull using a band saw.

3. Sand the two cuts flush with 80-grit sandpaper. The two ends should sit flush against a level surface when you are finished.

4. Drill a hole in the center of each cut with a drill bit one size bigger than an 8-32 threaded rod.

5. Mix two-part epoxy, and apply it to the inside of the drilled holes and on the part of the threaded rod that will go into the holes.

6. Press a 8-32 threaded rod into each hole, and hold it until it begins to set.

7. Drill holes in the drawer face that correspond with the threaded rods.

8. Insert the rods into the drawer holes.

9. Secure the pulls with nuts.

Tips & Warnings

• Cutting and drilling antlers is challenging because they are not a uniform size or shape and are hard to clamp. Take your time and work carefully.

• Don't get epoxy on areas of the rod where the nut will go.

References

• Log Furninture Directory: DIY Antler Pulls

Resources

• Antler Artisans: Antler Artisans --- Quality Antler Hardware