How to Sculpt a Ribbon out of a Turtle Shell

Depending on the type of turtle shell used in the sculpture, the final results may vary dramatically.

Sculpture is an art form in which objects are made through carving, casting or other shaping techniques. While sculptures are traditionally made from wood, marble or clay, they can also be made from animal bones or turtle shells. When done correctly, a sculpted turtle shell ribbon will be a beautiful keepsake that can be passed down for decades.

Things You'll Need

• Turtle shell
• Card stock
• Carpenters' pencil/felt tip pen
• Jig saw
• Hand file
• Coarse grade sandpaper
• Fine grade sandpaper
• Cloth
• Newspaper
• Paintbrush
• Clear varnish

Instructions

1. Obtain a turtle shell. Finding the shell from which the sculpture will be made is essential before starting the project. Turtle shells are typically available for purchase at antique shops or through online retailers. Depending on the specific type of shell, prices may vary substantially.

2. Brainstorm potential ribbon shapes. Choosing a style of ribbon is an important step that must be completed before sculpture can begin. While some individuals may favor a ribbon that appears to be flowing the wind, other may prefer a sculpture that resembles the breast cancer awareness emblem. Make a final decision as to the appropriate style of ribbon, and sketch it on a sheet of sturdy card stock.

3. Trace the sketch onto the turtle shell. Use a carpenters' pencil or felt tip pen to ensure that the design will be visible.

4. Remove the ribbon from the turtle shell. Using a jig saw, carefully cut around the outline created earlier with the carpenters' pencil or felt tip pen.

5. File the ribbon. Use a hand-file or coarse grade sandpaper to smooth the edges of the sculpture. Move to finer grade sandpaper as the edges become soft.

6. Dust the ribbon. Carefully brush all dust that may be remaining on the shell with a soft, clean cloth. Repeat this process until all signs of dust have been completely removed.

7. Finish the sculpture. While the ribbon is technically finished at this point, applying a thin clear coat of varnish provides a more professional appearance. Place the ribbon on a piece of newspaper, and use a paintbrush to apply a small amount of varnish. Focus on the sanded edges of the ribbon for best results in this final step.

Tips & Warnings

• Turtle shells that have been found in the wild can also be used in the project. However, sculptors should be aware that the shells may still contain tissue remnants. To remove these remnants, soak the shell in a large bucket that has been filled with muriatic acid and water. To avoid damaging the shell, add the water and acid in a 10 to 1 ratio, respectively. Allow the shell to soak for at least four hours, or until all tissue has been dissolved. Rinse the shell in clean water and resume the sculpting process.