Something different!

Bill DeShivs

Bill DeShivs

Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
Joined
Jun 6, 2000
Messages
12,882
Knifemakers are always looking for something different, to set their work apart.
Here is an idea for you-
During the early 1900s, when plastics were just beginning to be used for knife handles, clear celluloid "picture handles" were very popular. You sent your photograph the the knife manufacturer, and it was underlaid on clear celluloid handles. Celluloid doesn't hold up very well, though.
I recently restored one of these antique knives, using copies of photographs from an original catalog.





This was done with modern Lexan plastic and acrylic casting resin. If anyone is interested, I can explain the process.
 
Yes. Same knife, both sides.

Of course, the pictures were properly sized, then printed onto photo paper. The Lexan was cleaned thoroughly, and casting resin mixed and applied to the Lexan. Photos then laid onto the casting resin, and any bubbles or raised edges mashed/squeegeed out. Let cure for 2-3 days until casting resin is thoroughly hard. I then sprayed the rear of the photos with Krylon clear acrylic spray paint. I used several coats to make sure the rear of the photo paper is protected. Then the scales are simply cut out, pinned on and edge finished.
Then you can round or contour the edges, then sand to 600 grit, buff with 0000 steel wool, then polish on a slow speed buffer using tripoli or green compound.
You can use color photos, but make sure you test photos to make sure the ink doesn't run or slur. These were done in B/W for authenticity.
 
I've also seen people doing similar projects recently with the grips on their handguns... I don't know if that idea goes back as far as the knife handles or not. Kinda cool either way :)
 
It was common in WW2 to use Plexiglas from broken airplane windshields for grips, and sticking a cutout of a sweetheart under the grips.
These pictures are fused to, and part of the handles.
 
Tat is just awesome. I want to try this on a knife handle soon. I carry a small saddleback leather wallet, so I can't carry any pictures with me, this would be awesome to have. Pictures of my family AND my knife. Thanks for posting this!!
 
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