Burnishing Bone

Burnishing Bone

Overview

Burnishing Bone is a handheld tool traditionally made from polished animal bone, used to smooth, flatten, or refine surfaces in graphic arts, framing, and printmaking. Its primary function is to apply controlled pressure to eliminate irregularities, enhance sheen, or secure materials such as paper, foil, or adhesive films.

Construction and Design

• Material: Traditionally crafted from animal bone, modern versions may use synthetic polymers or hardwood for durability.
• Shape: Smooth, ergonomic, often curved or tapered to allow precise control over pressure and angle.
• Size: Compact and handheld, making it suitable for detailed work and accessible to all areas of the material.

Uses in Framing and Graphic Arts

• Smoothing Surfaces: Removes wrinkles, bubbles, or small protrusions in papers, mats, and adhesive layers.
• Applying Adhesives: Assists in burnishing pressure-sensitive mounting films to ensure uniform adhesion.
• Enhancing Sheen: Polishes metallic foils, gold leaf, and embossed surfaces for a professional finish.
• Flattening Artworks: Prepares prints, photographs, or delicate papers for framing or display.

Best Practices

• Always keep the burnishing bone clean to prevent scratches or transfer of oils onto artwork.
• Use gentle, even pressure to avoid tearing, creasing, or damaging the substrate.
• Work slowly from the center outward when smoothing mounted prints or adhesive films.
• Test on scrap material before working on valuable pieces to ensure proper pressure and technique.

Alternative Tools

• Plastic or synthetic burnishing bones for delicate or archival applications.
• Wooden burnishing tools for larger-scale flattening or smoothing.
• Roller presses or mechanical burnishing systems for uniform pressure across larger surfaces.

Related Terms

• Pliers
• Pneumatic Hand Tools
• Point Driver
• Pneumatic Point Gun