The material processing technology of horn tableware mainly includes the following steps:
Material selection and cutting
The workers will select the horns with better color and harder texture from the horns as raw materials.
Use an electric saw or band saw to cut the horn into the desired shape, such as the general shape of the horn cup or the initial shape of the spoon. During the cutting process, special attention should be paid to the cutting Angle to ensure the smooth progress of subsequent processing.
Grinding and finishing
Use a grinding wheel or sandpaper to polish the edges of the ox horn, removing the rough parts left during cutting to give it a smooth surface.
For the production of horn cups, it is also necessary to evenly trim the edge of the upper part of the horn and gradually thin it down to make it easier to bend and shape.
Heating and shaping
The main component of ox horns is keratin, which can be shaped when heated and maintain its new shape after cooling.
Craftsmen will use flames or gas cylinders to heat the ox horns to soften them and make them malleable. Then, through techniques such as bending and folding, the horns are shaped into the desired form, such as the handle of a horn cup or the tip of a spoon.
Fixation and cooling
Put the shaped ox horns into the press or vise to fix them to ensure they maintain their new shape after cooling.
Wait until the horns have completely cooled and set before proceeding to the next step of processing.
Production of the base and seal:
For the production of horned cups, it is also necessary to make a base and carry out sealing treatment. The craftsman will place the horn cup on the wooden board and then add an appropriate amount of food-grade resin to it to form a waterproof and sealed base.
After the resin has completely cured, use a band saw to cut off the excess part and grind the edge with a grinding wheel to align it exactly with the bottom of the horn cup.
Fine grinding and polishing
Use a grinding wheel or sandpaper to finely grind the inside and outside of the horn tableware to remove the excess corners and rough parts.
Carry out polishing treatment to make the surface of the horn tableware brighter and smoother, and emit a glittering luster.
Carving and Decoration (optional) :
For some horn-shaped tableware that needs decoration, artisans will also carry out carving processing and add decorative elements such as patterns or designs.