Learning How to Scrimshaw
The author of this book has a long interest in arts and crafts. He has no formal art education but has taken numerous classes and practices scrimshaw and other crafts. One day while strolling through the aisles of a knife collector show he discovered a knife with a very beautiful picture etched into the handle. His girl friend explained that this was scrimshaw. She was very impressed with scrimshaw and explained that scrimshaw is one of the few original American art forms.After a few days of thinking about scrimshaw, the author decided he needed to learn more. At this time the internet was not an option. He went to the public library but could only find a few references about scrimshaw. With this, he stole a dogs bone from his girl friends house, went home and proceeded to polish one side and produce his first piece of scrimshaw.The author has collected most available books about scrimshaw and has read as much about the art form as he could find. He has continued to scrimshaw for over 20 years. During this time he has taught at various schools and events while continuing to develop his technique and skill.The dogs bone? Oh... it was returned to the girl friend and remains in her possession. The author can view his first work most any time now, since he has been married to this fine lady for over 20 years now.