How to Antique Ivory Polymer Grips

Use a paintbrush to apply burnt umber paint to the surface of the ivory polymer grip.

There is nothing like the beauty of real antique ivory. You can use acrylic burnt umber paint to antique ivory polymer grips on pistols or other objects for a realistic look that will fool all but the experts. The ivory polymer used in pistol grips is very similar to ivory polymer clay used for crafts.

Things You'll Need

• Ivory polymer grips
• Small V-gouge
• Acrylic burnt umber paint
• Paintbrush
• Soft clothes
• Acrylic spray sealer

Instructions

1. Use a small V-gouge and carve lines in the ivory polymer grips to mimic the natural striations in ivory or bone. Keep in mind that the deeper the gouge, the darker the antiquing. Vary the depth and width of the gouges. Note: It is possible to carve designs in the same fashion. Be careful so the V-gouge does not slip and make unwanted marks.

2. Use a soft cloth to wipe off the grips to remove any loose particles from the carvings.

3. Use a paintbrush and cover the entire grip with a thin coat of acrylic burnt umber paint.

4. Using a soft cloth, immediately wipe off the paint from the surface. The paint will wipe off the surface easily and remain in the gouges.

5. Look at the surface of the grip. Add gouges if the antiquing is not sufficient. Reapply the burnt umber paint and wipe off.

6. Let the piece dry for one hour. Apply three coats of acrylic spray sealer, letting each coat dry 10 minutes before applying the next.

Tips & Warnings

• Hand clean antiqued ivory polymer with soap and water. It is possible for the antiquing to wear off. Repeat the paint application and sealing process if this happens.

• Antique an ivory polymer grip without making grooves. Paint the handle with burnt umber paint and remove only part of the paint until you have the desired effect. Spray three coats of acrylic sealer on the grips once the paint is dry.

• It is important to use acrylic paint and not oil paint since oil paint takes significantly longer to dry. However, oil paint is acceptable if the grip will not be used for at least 30 days. This will set the paint and ensure it will not rub from the grooves. Oil-based paint requires an oil-based sealer.

References

• Desired Creations: How to make a faux ivory/bone horn

Resources

• Buffalo Arms: No Design Antiqued Pistol Grip
• Buffalo Arms: Antiqued Eagle Carving Pistol Grip
• Jay Fisher: Antiqued Snake Scrimshaw