Acrylic Acetate, Celluloid Acetate, Decora, Crushed Velvet
These materials are constantly changing as more color, patterns, and compositions become available. They glue easily, cut easily, and produce their own finish through buffing. Don’t use coarse abrasives in the initial sanding because they will scratch.
Corian®
Again, new colors and patterns are constantly being developed. Products similar to Corian, but made by different manufacturers, vary in consistency and cutting properties.
Dymondwood
Dymondwood is composed of layers of birch, dyed with aniline dyes and put together with epoxies, heat, and high pressure. The result is a durable, attractive product in a variety of patterns, from showy to natural, that contains its own finish. Each batch can change color and consistency.
Pickguard and Knife Spacer Veneer
This is laminated plastic and combinations of plastic used in the musical instrument industry and for custom knife making. These materials can be used as accent pieces in the pens.
Stabilized or Impregnated Wood
Borderline or unstable wood, or even perfect wood, can be treated by stabilization. The wood is impregnated with epoxies and resins under high pressure and cured with heat. Color can be introduced during the process as well. Not all woods accept the process equally, and color penetration can vary throughout the blank based on hardness and grain pattern.
Antler
Antler is a living material, like wood. No two pieces are alike. The habitat of an animal can have an effect on color and density, as can the species or breed. Elk has more marrow and therefore is often more colorful from the dried blood in the marrow. The deer antler, which is normally a smaller diameter, will produce a much denser, more ivory- like surface, especially in smaller diameters. I like to use polyurethane glue to glue the brass tubes into the antler as the glue is opaque and expands to fill the pores in the antler, which helps hide the brass tube.
Tagua Nut
Tagua nuts, also known as vegetable ivory, are a legal substitute for ivory with similar appearance. They provide a unique material for contrast and accent.
Roller ball pen from maple burl which has been stabilized and dyed blue with tagua dot.
Cast Polyester
Cast polyester is a manufactured material made to duplicate ivory, bone, animal horn, tortoise shell, onyx, and black marble. It cuts, glues, and works easily, and has a fine finish. It is also available in sizes large enough to make a complete pen.
