how to press tortois shell

Toohey

subject is misspelled and yet says it all ..does anybody know of a good way to do this?

pinkgary

No, but i would also like to know. I have a old shoehorn that i've turned into picks, but they're still curved like a shoehorn, funnily enough.

Craig Bumgarner

Not sure I understand the question. Trying to flatten out a piece that is not already flat? I have no experience, but my first try would be heat it to about 250-300 degrees and then clamp it between a couple pieces of wood, let it cool that way over night. If you are trying to do something different, please fill us in.

ViperMad77

Toohey wrote:

subject is misspelled and yet says it all ..does anybody know of a good way to do this?

indeed, the spelling does matter.
animal shell? or the alternative, a protein/chem. mixture?

hot iron, wet cloth (to wrap the pick so it doesn't burn) and a clamp.
i learned a few tricks like this when I worked for PRS guitars, many years ago.

BluesBop Harry

I once found a vintage bracelet at a flea market and I used it to make some really cool picks. I did it by letting it soak for a few minutes in boiling water (DO NOT use dry heat). It'll get soft and pliable then put it between two flat pieces (glass, metal, wood, ...) and clamp it there overnight or for a few days.

Jazzaferri

+1 for Harry's method. Works well and less chance of a whoopsie

pinkgary

Marvellous.. Now, do i dare to do it to the pick i've been using, that's got my perfectly worn edge on it, but is still curved or, try it with a new piece.

Jazzaferri

I don't think it will affect the edge. Just Don't put too much pressure on the clamp.

Toohey

you guys are awesome !!and ihave enjoyed everything you guys have had to say...but what iam really wondering is how to somehow if possible slice the shelli or press itinto the thinner picks i have seen and owned/played in the past. i realize one could simply use the thinner part of the shell around the edge, but that is not as perfect as the seemingly sliced picks i am after here...thoughts? answers?

Steveareno

I found an old piece of tortoiseshell in the attic (from the Pacific Islands, pre-WW2). Cut out a few picks using a hackswaw (would have been easier if I had a clamp or vice) and sand paper, then wet & dry and polished with cutting compound. They range from 2-4 mm thick. Tried various sizes and shapes, but didn't really like the sound in the end. A little too clacky and bright on my guitars (prefer V Picks, Grisman Dawgs and Red Bear). That stuff is hard to cut. I like the idea of warming and up and dampening with hot wet towel to soften. Must make it easier to cut. Might try that technique some time. Also will rub some oil on them to mosturize, if they're a little dried out. I think for some guitars they must sound amazing, especially to bring out highs but retain some mellow. They warm up in your hand like V Picks, so provide a pretty good grip. Other musicians may have their wives and lovers, but guitar players have their pick (sorry, couldn't help myself).
Swang on,