In 2021, I was lucky enough to attend a workshop at the Penland School of Craft where I learned to make bone folders. Taught by Shanna Leino, we sculpted elk bone by hand to create traditional tools. This is the finished result. This type of art prompts a lot of questions. I have answered a few at the bottom of the page.

FAQ

  1. Did you hunt the animal to obtain the material?

    Nope. The bone material is considered a waste product by hunters. When taken to a professional processing facility, the bones end up in the trash. If you have the time and patience to clean it, it makes a sturdy and wonderful material to sculpt. I use what a hunter doesn't want.

  2. Why do you animal products in your work?

    I am personally comfortable using animal products in my work, though I fully appreciate and respect those who feel differently. In my view, this is a waste product of legal and ethical hunting. The animals hunted are not endangered, nor are they hunted for trophy parts. I am using unwanted, leftover material.

  3. Is it, ya know, gross?

    It can be at times, sure. If you clean and prepare the bones yourself, then yes. If you choose to purchase material that is cleaned and ready to go, then no. Once you have the raw material, the only mess it creates is dust. Lots of dust.