What sealer over snakeskin?

T

tglenn

Joined
Sep 27, 2005
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Hi, I'm new to knife making and I want to put snakeskin over a wood knife handle. What kind of sealer can I use to protect the snakeskin and make it tough and usable? Thanks, Glenn
 
When I first clicked on this I thought you meant for a sheath.I use Feibings Leather Sheen for that.I have been using snakeskin for many years but have not heard of using it as a handle wrap.In my opinion it would be too fragile for a good handle wrap.Depending on the species of the snake( skin texture and scale size) maybe many coats of a urethane type finish might work, but I have my doubts on how it might look. I could be wrong,though. Good Luck Dave :)
 
You might check Tandy Leather, I know they have some tanning stuff for snake hide. You might want to look at some Stingray as it is tough and has some texture.
 
I'm with Dave.I don't think it will hold up (unless it is just a fantasy knife).If you apply several layers of finish over it,you will have a plastic handle with a snake skin in it - Not durable or pretty.Ray skin,shark skin,elephant hide - these will work.
 
Will agree with everyone else. if you coat the snakeskin it might give it a plastic inlay look. How about trying freeze dryed snake. it would be hard enough but would doubt the wearness of such a handle.
Snake wood would be the best alternative. :cool:
 
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