How to Carve Abalone Shells
Carving abalone shells so you can use them as decorative jewelry is a challenging task. Despite the challenge, you can create unique, beautiful designs with just a little practice. You do need to be careful, however, as the powder created during carving can be toxic if inhaled or absorbed into the skin.
Instructions
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1
Set up your tools on a clean work space and trace the design you wish to create on the abalone shell with a grease pencil. Put on your face mask and gloves.
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2
Carve out the design with a dremel. Though abalone is sturdy and hard, use caution while carving and drilling your design to avoid cracking or accidentally breaking off parts of the shell.
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3
Wash away dust, debris and bits of shell with water while you're carving to keep your work area clean.
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4
Polish and finish roughness from your carving using a sandblaster with medium to fine grit sandpaper to .
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5
Rinse the carved piece with water and pat dry.
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6
Polish with olive oil to bring out the rainbow of colors within the shell.
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Tips & Warnings
Planning your design beforehand and tracing it over the shell is a great way to practice before you try doing freehand designs.
Use caution when working with abilone, as dust particles created during carving and sanding are toxic if inhaled or soaked into the skin.
