How do I bleach bone white?

[jwfilion]

I have a couple of fairly thick handle slabs of cow leg bone, however they seem to be either stained or are darker for one reason or another. I have sanded areas of it and the color goes all the way through. After shaping them, I was thinking of trying some scrimshaw. Is there a way of bleaching the bone white? Would actual bleach do the job? As always, any response will be welcome.

[john mcdonald]

i have just returned from a bone carving night class. One question that came up was exactly what you have asked.

yellowing/ discolouration on cow leg/shin bones.

Remedy, place bone into an old pot pour over boiling water to cover add 1.5 cups of domestic bleach & 1 cup of detergent. leave to cool overnight. Remove from water and let dry 1-2 days depending on sun strength. the bones should be white if not repeat with a slightly stronger mix of bleach..

hope this works OK.

[QUOTE] SPIONNADH TRE FURAS ( STRENGTH THROUGH PATIENCE)

[jwfilion]

I'll give it a try...thanks kindly!

[Demaske]

Thanks John,
I found some deer bone. Going to give it a try . if It works I'll try the minwax stabalization tekniq. Then I'll try to schrim on it and see if the processes work together.
I have nothing better to do while I build up my tool and supplies inventory so maybe I can start making knives again .

Paul

[Exude]

What happens if you don't stabilize?